Wild Dog (Canis familiaris)
Wild dogs are declared feral animals under the BIO Security Act. All land holders are required to reduce the number of wild dogs on their properties. The presence of domestic dog genes in Wild dogs can cause variations in colour and body size. Colours range from brindle, ginger, black or a mixture of colours and it is not uncommon for them to display the white socks and a white chest patches similar to the Dingo. Their home range can vary from 25 to 50 Kilometres which they will regularly pad. They mark their territories by depositing faeces and mark scent posts as a warning to other dogs to keep out. Wild dogs consume a wide range of pray and will often kill and eat according to their needs. In grazing areas, they will harass and kill sheep and calves without often eating them. They can cause huge losses of stock within a short period of time. Wild dogs are the primary host for hydatids and other diseases, extreme care should be taken when handling them.
Wild dog management needs to be approached in a co-ordinated manner which involves a group approach (you and the neighbours). Baiting programs should be conducted with local authorities, with follow up trapping and shooting programs which Wildpest Management can conduct. Some areas are not suitable for baiting due to restrictions and laws on bait placement - this is where trapping programs need to be conducted. Prior to any trapping programs conducted we will sit down and plan the program with you, keep you informed of the outcomes provide a report and further information on our findings.
European Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes)
The Fox was introduced into Australia in 1860 as a hunting animal. It became classed as a pest species within 30 years. It has few natural enemies and is highly adaptable. It is a very successful coloniser which allows them to survive in peri-urban and rural areas. Foxes are a declared pest in all Australian states and territories. Foxes breed once a year over a period of two to three weeks in early winter, litter size varies from four to ten cubs, and disperse from the den aged six to nine months. Foxes survive on a varied diet ranging from lambs, poultry, insects, native species, fruit and berry crops. To control foxes we use a number of different methods - we can conduct trapping using soft jaw foot traps or cage traps, or shooting programs. We are licenced with Queensland Health to conduct fumigation of dens when they are active. In Queensland under the Pest Management Act, it is an offence to conduct fumigation unless you are licenced.
Feral Cat (Felis catus)
Cats have been in Australia since European settlement. Intentional introductions of cats into the wild happened in the late 1800's in hope that they would control rabbits, rats and mice. Feral cats occur in most parts of Australia and are a very adaptable animal. They are very good hunters because the are predominantly nocturnal and their eyes are more effective in poor light conditions. Feral Cats are induced ovulators and can have two litters per year with an average four kittens per year.
Few young survive as they are weaned at about eight weeks. Females become sexually mature at approximately one year old. Their impact on native wildlife, birds and reptiles has led to the extinction of many species. They are also vectors for the spread of diseases such as Toxoplasmosis and Sarcosporidiosis these diseases can be transmitted to native animals, domestic livestock and humans. These diseases can cause infant mortality in sheep, also nervous system, blindness and respiratory problems in wildlife. It is believed that feral cats can cause health issues in humans however it is not well known or documented. To control feral cats we conduct trapping using cage traps, soft jaw foot traps and other aids. Feral cat trapping can be time consuming and requires good skill levels to achieve successful outcomes.
To assist with the management of Foxes and Feral Cats we have trained detection dogs.
We operate under the following acts for the management of Feral Animals
Animal Care and Protection Act 2001 (Qld)
Land Protection (Pest and Stock Route Management) Act 2002 (Qld)
Health (Drugs and Poisons) Regulation 1996 (Qld)
Weapons Act 1990 (Qld)