The Age Structure of a Sample of Red Foxes (Vulpes-Vulpes L) Taken by Hunters in Victoria

Abstract

Between 1982 and 1984, the ages of 317 foxes killed by hunters in Victoria were estimated by examining cranial sutures, counting annular cementum layers in teeth and measuring the relative size of the pulp cavity in canines. No single technique could accurately determine the age class. The results indicated that at least 54% of all animals were less than 1 year old and 71% were less than 2 years old. Some 3% of all skulls were either 1 or 2 years old and could not be further classified. Few animals had survived beyond 4 years (4%) and no animal was older than 7 years. There was no significant difference in the age structure between years or between sexes, but the different methods of capture generated significant differences. Night shooting resulted in a very high proportion of first and second year animals (77%) whereas battues produced significantly fewer animals in this age group (64%). The age structure figures are broadly similar to figures obtained for fox populations in continental Europe and the United Kingdom where the intensity of control is low or only moderate. Some implications of the age structure are discussed.