Proof in the Pudding

[S.R.Patch]

New study shows fox population management ‘working perfectly’

New research from Professor Stephen Harris of Bristol University, funded by IFAW, suggests the British fox population has remained stable at around 250,000 for the last twenty five years, and that habitat can be as important as population management in determining densities.

The long-term stability of the British fox population proves that the current system of managing foxes, using hunting, shooting and other legal methods, is working perfectly and producing a stable and sustainable population acceptable to farming interests. One part of that management has been the creation and conservation of natural habitats by hunts, which has been carried out for hundreds of years and is recognised by a number of reputable research establishments as having far reaching biodiversity benefits.

The findings are, however, entirely consistent with the most comprehensive survey of fox numbers recorded by 200 hunts twice a week throughout the autumn and winter. In the absence of any evidence that hunting is any less humane than other methods of control, as confirmed by the Burns Report, it would seem that Professor Harris’ work proves that the best result for foxes, wildlife and farming is achieved by enabling the current proven systems of management to continue.


"Proof that true hunter will always do what is in the best interest of their diversion, to preserve the game that furnishes their sport. For who would know better than the true sportsman who lives to be in the out-of-doors an commune with nature, on a daily basis"...Patch