European Red Fox Food Chain
The European Red Fox was introduced to Australia for fox
hunting purposes in the mid 1855. By the early 1870's the population of foxes
in the wild was firmly established.
Most areas of Australia now have a feral fox population. Northern areas of Western Australia, Northern Territory and Queensland along with Tasmania are yet to face issues with Red Fox population.
Ecology:
The Red Fox survives in a number of different habitats including urban, alpine and arid areas. Particularly areas that offer an abundance and variety of food and shelter options.
During the day the fox sleeps and at night they actively scavenge for food. The fox will eat almost anything. Mainly small animals but in summer months when food is scarce fruits and insects will be consumed.
Causes of fox mortality include shooting, trapping, baiting and predation by dingoes. Diseases such as mange and distemper are also contributing factors.
Impact:
Many species have declined in numbers due to predation by the Red Fox. These include the Primary consumers listed above.
Other damage caused by the fox include loss to farming communities through the loss of newborn lambs, goats and chickens.
The fox can also be the carrier of diseases which can affect communities as well.
Most areas of Australia now have a feral fox population. Northern areas of Western Australia, Northern Territory and Queensland along with Tasmania are yet to face issues with Red Fox population.
Ecology:
The Red Fox survives in a number of different habitats including urban, alpine and arid areas. Particularly areas that offer an abundance and variety of food and shelter options.
During the day the fox sleeps and at night they actively scavenge for food. The fox will eat almost anything. Mainly small animals but in summer months when food is scarce fruits and insects will be consumed.
Causes of fox mortality include shooting, trapping, baiting and predation by dingoes. Diseases such as mange and distemper are also contributing factors.
Impact:
Many species have declined in numbers due to predation by the Red Fox. These include the Primary consumers listed above.
Other damage caused by the fox include loss to farming communities through the loss of newborn lambs, goats and chickens.
The fox can also be the carrier of diseases which can affect communities as well.