Fox management program - Smiths Creek Reserve
We will soon begin a pest management program at Smiths Creek Reserve to control fox populations and reduce their impact on native wildlife.
This initiative aims to protect and enhance the reserve’s significant biodiversity by reducing threats to vulnerable native species.
How the program will be delivered
We have engaged Aroona Project Management to carry out the program.
Humane cage traps will be used to capture foxes, which will then be euthanised in accordance with animal welfare standards. This method has been selected to minimise risks to other animals.
What this means for residents
The program is designed to be safe, targeted and humane. Traps will be regularly checked and any non-target animals will be released.
For more information about pet safety, trapping methods and what to expect, please see the FAQs below.
Community information session
Community members are invited to attend an information session on Tuesday 14 April 2026, 5.30pm – 7.30pm at East Campbelltown Community Hall.
Council’s contractor and Natural Areas team will provide an overview of the program and answer your questions.
To attend, please complete the registration form below. You are encouraged to submit any questions in advance.
REGISTRATION: Registration - Fox Management Program - Smiths Creek Reserve | OverToYou
Why is the pest management program being undertaken?
Council has received reports of a high number of foxes within Smiths Creek Reserve.
Smiths Creek is one of Campbelltown’s most important bushland reserves and supports a wide range of native plants and animals.
Foxes are a major predator of native species and contribute to the decline of wildlife, including bird species and koalas. They can also carry diseases such as mange and tapeworm.
How will the foxes be caught?
Fox activity has been identified using trail cameras and community reports.
Humane cage traps will be used to capture foxes, which will then be euthanised in accordance with animal welfare standards.
This method meets the highest animal welfare standards. The risk of injury to any animals caught in the trap is significantly reduced by using the cage trapping method.
When will the pest management program start?
We expect the program to begin in May.
How long will the program take?
The initial program is scheduled for 2 months. Future programs may be undertaken as needed to continue protecting native wildlife and maintaining the health of the reserve.
What if my cat is caught in the trap?
If a cat is captured, it will be scanned for a microchip and the owner will be contacted to arrange collection.
To help keep pets safe, we recommend keeping cats indoors or contained, particularly near bushland areas.
Roaming cats can also have a significant impact on native wildlife, including birds and small mammals.
What if other animals are caught in the traps?
Traps will be checked at least twice daily.
Native animals will be safely released. Cage traps have been selected to minimise the risk of injury to animals.
If a pet is captured, it will be safely released and the owner will be contacted.
What is the impact of foxes
Foxes are an introduced species that have a significant impact on native wildlife, including birds, small mammals and koalas.
Euthanasia is currently the most effective and humane way to reduce fox numbers and protect vulnerable native species.
Why aren’t the foxes being relocated instead?
Relocating foxes is not considered effective or humane.
Relocated foxes often struggle to survive, can spread disease, and may simply move the problem to another area.
Why not baiting?
Smiths Creek Reserve is a peri-urban reserve close to residential areas and commonly used by people walking pets.
Baiting was determined to not be an appropriate method.
Will traps be visible to the public?
Traps will be placed within the reserve in areas where fox activity has been identified.
They are positioned carefully to reduce interaction with the public and non-target animals.