The red fox Vulpes vulpes is one of the most destructive invasive species in mainland Australia and has recently been introduced to Tasmania. This paper reports the results of a survey conducted in Tasmania in mid-2006, to ascertain the public's views about foxes, their presence in Tasmania and what, if anything, should be done about them if, in fact, they are present. The survey found that public opinion among Tasmanians surveyed was overwhelmingly and vehemently opposed to the presence of foxes and indicated a high public expectation that there would be action by the authorities, scientists and others to remove them and/or prevent their further entry to the State. The minority of respondents who dissented from this view were chiefly in the “don't know” category, and required further information. The variation in responses by age to this and other questions indicates the desirability of a stronger communication focus on younger Tasmanians about foxes, the risks they pose and the need to use scientific methods to control them.

Invasive species, Community survey, Vulpes vulpes
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