Hi Friends and Neighbors–

We continue to defer to and count on our mentors to educate and inform us. 

A question is asked about whether it is okay to trap fox in the neighborhood (for safety–to protect young children and cats from fox) and the procedure. A neighbor reports a coyote chasing a fox through their backyard and a question of concern about young children being safe is raised. As many of you know, fox and coyote live in the ravine. I’ve had reports of sightings since 2002 (when our group began). It is important to learn and become knowledgeable about the wildlife living in Adena Brook so that we can live peacefully and safely together. I have confidence in Donna Daniel’s expertise to listen and recommend advice when help is needed.

Donna Daniel, ODNR, Div of Wildlife, writes:

“A private landowner would need a permit from the ODNR, Div. of Wildlife to utilize lethal control for fox ON THEIR LAND.  If the fox are on city property or on a neighbor’s property then a private landowner cannot act (nor can they hire a nuisance trapper to do the work) without the property owner’s permission.  A nuisance trapping company (like Varment Guard) should know to deal with the proper and actual owner of the land and what permits are necessary and how to attain them.

I would urge the person(s) who views the foxes as a nuisance to call the Wildlife District One office (614/644-3925) so that we could find out the entire story, educate them about foxes and what to expect with a den.  In many cases the best solution is to just leave them alone and within a few weeks they will disperse.  But, again, the specific recommendation would depend on the details of this situation.”

Donna M. Daniel
ODNR, Division of Wildlife
1500 Dublin Rd.
Columbus, OH  43215
614/644-3925
614/644-3931 FAX