COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

South Dublin County Council Crest

MEETING OF SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

Monday, July 14, 2014

QUESTION NO.33

QUESTION: Councillor Ronan McMahon

To ask the Chief Executive if there has ever been a survey undertaken of the estimated fox population in the County, and if so what were the results and how it compares to other similar urban areas. If not, is it possible that the CE could organise such a survey as the population of foxes in the area seems to be getting to a dangerous level?

REPLY:

Requests for information on fox populations in the Council area have been made of National Parks and Wildlife Service and mammal researchers in UCD. Initial replies indicate that while there has been no comprehensive survey of foxes in the urban area of the Council, fox populations would not be considered to be in excess of those experienced in other urban centres. Expert advice recommends that residents are reminded that active feeding of foxes in gardens can increase the likelihood of these foxes engaging with homeowners in a manner that may become uncomfortable or frightening for some.