Eradication of introduced foxes from Phillip Island
The last sign of a European Red Fox on Phillip Island was in August 2015 after 37 years of efforts to remove foxes from the Island. This eradication was ultimately successful due to the long-term commitment and dedication of Phillip Island Nature Parks and the Department of Environment, Land, Water, and Planning (DELWP).
Phillip Island Nature Parks’ fox eradication program won a prestigious Banskia Environmental Award 2011 in the Land and Biodiversity category and a Natural Environment Award in the 2012 Victorian Coastal Awards for Excellence.
Foxes were introduced to Phillip Island in the early 1900s and have had a major impact on Phillip Island’s unique wildlife. Foxes are the Little Penguin’s biggest threat on land. By the 1980s nine of Phillip Island’s ten penguin colonies had become extinct and the last remaining colony on the Summerland Peninsula, which encompasses the Penguin Parade, was under threat.
This successful fox control work continues to be guided by Phillip Island Nature Park's 5 year Conservation Plan 2019-2023.
