FOX CONTROL CONTRACT

CVPM has been contracted to provide wild animal management services on a medium-scale free-range poultry farm that spans over an impressive 100 acres, specifically to address the ongoing issue of fox predation.

This farm is not just a typical poultry operation; it is home to a substantial population of 95,000 poultry birds, each hen of which has the remarkable capacity to lay an average of 300 eggs per year.

This translates to a staggering production potential, highlighting the significance of maintaining a secure environment for these birds.

Indeed, when one considers the sheer volume of eggs produced, it becomes clear that the farm's output is substantial, contributing significantly to local and regional supply chains. However, the challenges posed by predation cannot be underestimated.

Prior to the engagement of CVPM, the farm manager faced severe losses, with an alarming average of 30 to 50 hens disappearing daily due to fox attacks. On particularly devastating days, reports indicated that as many as 80 hens could be lost in a single night, underscoring the urgent need for effective wild animal management strategies.

It is critical to understand that foxes do not merely hunt for sustenance; they are known to kill for sport, a behavior that exacerbates the problem and leads to even greater losses for the farm.

In response to these challenges, CVPM has dedicated significant resources to the farm, spending a total of 8 nights on-site. During this time, the team has successfully managed to control a total of 63 foxes, with an impressive average control tally of approximately 7 to 8 foxes per night.

Research conducted at the farm indicates that a single fox kills around 10 hens in one night, a statistic that highlights the potential for devastating losses if the predator population is not effectively managed.

Taking into account the 63 foxes that have been controlled, and considering the average predation rate of 10 hens per fox per night, this effort translates to an estimated 630 hens being saved from predation.

This also means that approximately 189,000 eggs have been preserved and are now reintegrated into the farm's production cycle.

This remarkable recovery not only bolsters the farm's immediate output but also enhances its long-term sustainability.

While it is important to acknowledge that contract ground shooting does incur costs, it is crucial to view this expenditure as an investment in the long-term viability and profitability of the farm operation.

By effectively reducing the high numbers of predators within the ecosystem, the farm can ensure a more stable and secure environment for its poultry, ultimately leading to improved production outcomes and a stronger economic output.

The proactive measures taken by CVPM are instrumental in safeguarding the future of this poultry farm, allowing it to thrive in a competitive agricultural landscape.