The Victorian fox bounty will resume in March with collection centres opening across the state.
Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport and Resources (DEDJTR) pest animal expert John Matthews said the fox bounty would continue as per normal this year.
“The collection period for the fox bounty, which has accounted for 347,000 foxes since its inception, will run from March until the end of October, consistent with previous years.”
Collection centres will also receive acceptable wild dog skin pieces from March until June 30 when the wild dog bounty will conclude in line with a Victorian Labor Government election commitment.
“Eligible participants can submit entire fox scalps for a $10 reward and acceptable wild dog skin pieces for a $100 reward during scheduled collection times,” Mr Matthews said.
Mr Matthews said protecting vulnerable livestock and native animals from foxes and wild dogs required an integrated approach including poison baiting, trapping, and exclusion fencing.
“People or businesses who buy, trade, sell, or offer commission or accept royalties for fox or wild dog skins from any hunter anywhere in Australia are not eligible to participate in the bounty.”
Mr Matthews said people should check collection centre times as there will be some minor scheduling changes at some centres.
Wild dog collections at Rainbow will continue by appointment only, once every four weeks on Wednesdays from 10am.
“Wild dog collections will end on the June 30 across the state,” Mr Matthews said.
DEDJTR officers will staff the 21 fox collection centres and seven wild dog collection centres.
Details: Visit www.depi.vic.gov.au/bounty or call the DEDJTR Customer Service on 136 186.