Fertility control is much less effective than lethal baiting for controlling foxes

摘要: a b s t r c In some environments, red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) are major pests of agricultural systems. The main methods controlling rely on poison baiting, den fumigation and destruction. There concerns that ongoing use poisons fumigants may become unacceptable the grounds humaneness. Additional control options humane effective need to be investigated. this study we developed models examine efficacy using contraceptive agents as an alternative method for fox populations. simulated dynamics structured (by age sex) were then used identify level infertility required achieve target levels control, maintenance, benefits integrated pest management strategy included lethal control. indicated annual campaign baits sterilised female would reduce mean population density by about 30%. An poisoning (using same effort sterilisation campaign) 80%. Payoff, in terms reduced density, any given bait payoff was generally three four times greater than baits. Additionally, control—culling fertility control—offered no advantage over culling only. For foxes, contraception delivered via is unlikely provide useful poisoning.