Red Foxes

Foxes generally prey on small mammals and have been recorded eating birds, reptiles, amphibians, insects and fruit. A mature fox is capable of killing up to 3000 native fauna.

The Fox is an elusive and adaptive species that can survive in dry conditions because they are predominantly nocturnal and can meet their water requirements through their prey.

Foxes are not considered a threat to children or to adult cats and dogs.

Tips to prevent Foxes

• Eliminate food sources such as pet food left outdoors; 
• Remove places for a fox to hide or build a den on your property like blackberry patches; 
• Contact an authorised contractor to remove any fox dens on your property; 
• Avoid feeding native animals as they become less wary and more susceptible as prey for foxes; 
• Keep compost and litter bins covered to avoid foxes finding food scraps; 
• Clean up fruit dropped by fruit trees; and 
• Never make foxes pets by feeding them.

Habits and Behaviour of Foxes

• Opportunistic feeders, eating vegetables, fruit, insects and meat including animals up to approximately 5kg; 
• Generally nocturnal;
• Rest in a variety of shelters such as under houses and sheds, in hollow logs, under rock piles, in drain pipes and under blackberry patches; 
• Territorial and mark their territories with excrement, urine and scent; 
• Usually hunt alone; and
• Dig dens near good food sources for breeding.

Please note: the City of Stonnington does not rescue foxes.