Collection teams will be back on the road again this week when the Victorian Fox and Wild Dog Bounty resumes.
Agriculture Victoria’s John Matthews said collections started on 6 March in the South East collection centres.
“The collection period for the fox and wild dog bounty will run from March until the end of October, consistent with previous years,” Mr Matthews said.
“Eligible participants can submit entire fox scalps for a $10 reward and entire wild dog skin pieces for a $120 reward during scheduled collection times.”
Mr Matthews urged hunters to check collection centre times, as there are a number of minor scheduling changes for 2017 due to public holidays.
“Hunters should also note that bounty collections have been scheduled to avoid clashes with the Labour Day, Anzac Day, Queen’s Birthday, and AFL Grand Final Eve public holidays.”
Mr Matthews said that the collection of entire wild dog skin pieces for the North West Wild Dog Control Area was by appointment only. Appointments can be made by calling the customer service centre on 136 186.
“We are expecting a large number of hunters to submit fox scalps and wild dog skin pieces over the first few months of collections as autumn typically sees a peak in fox hunting activity as young and displaced juvenile foxes move around the landscape.
“Hunters traditionally submit larger numbers of scalps during autumn due to the stockpiling of body parts over summer as well as the improved hunting conditions,” he said.
In 2016, over 85,500 entire fox scalps were presented for reward in Victoria.
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.
“Hunting can play an important role in integrated fox management.”
For full details on collection times and locations, terms and conditions and frequently asked questions, please visit www.agriculture.vic.gov.au/bounty or call the Agriculture Victoria Customer Service Centre on 136 186.
