A GROUNDBREAKING research project being led from the Port Macquarie campus of Charles Sturt University is investigating how the hidden chemical signals in fox urine could help control one of Australia’s most destructive invasive predators.
The study is being led by Dr Anke Frank, a Lecturer in Ecology based in Port Macquarie, who is working to decode the chemical messages foxes use to communicate through scent.
Foxes rely heavily on urine markings to signal territory boundaries, reproductive status, health and identity to other foxes.
Dr Frank said the research could transform the way pest managers control fox populations across Australia.
“Our research is about unpacking that hidden chemical language, so we can use scent cues in a more targeted and effective way,” Dr Frank said.
“We’re trying to turn fox scent communication into a practical management tool.”
The project will first identify the chemical compounds responsible for carrying specific messages before testing how foxes and other animals respond to those signals in the field.
“That allows us to enhance existing scent signals that deliberately trigger a desired behaviour,” Dr Frank said.
“For example, if a particular scent makes foxes investigate closer, we could use it as an attractant to help them find baits easier and thus improve controls.
“If we enhance scents linked to reproduction, we may be able to interfere with mating.
“On the other hand, scents that signal a dominant fox could be used to deter others and therefore protect vulnerable wildlife.”
An estimated 1.7 million foxes live in Australia, causing significant environmental and economic damage. Foxes kill millions of livestock animals each year and hundreds of millions of native animals, contributing to the extinction of more than 30 Australian mammal species.
“Our research aims to make tools for trapping and baiting more effective by developing targeted scent lures that tap into how foxes naturally communicate and make decisions,” Dr Frank said.
The project is supported by the NSW Government’s Environmental Trust and involves collaborators from University of Tasmania and University of Sydney.
By Sis HIGGINS
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