How do you solve a problem like Mr Fox?
JUST how tolerant should we be of what appears to be a growing number of foxes in Worthing?
Just asking this question will be enough to spark a furious response from animal lovers who think that foxes have as much right to roam our streets and gardens as we do.
Yet, the distressing case of two London babies mauled in their cot by a foraging fox has re-ignited the whole argument between fox preservationists and their opponents.
Some Worthing residents, particularly in the south Goring area, experience disquiet at the frequency with which foxes are seen prowling the pavements, lawns and shrubberies when dusk arrives.
It is easy to argue that it is rare for foxes to attack humans, and so there is no need to be alarmist when such an incident does happen.
But while adults may not fear for themselves, the night's attack on the Lewisham twin girls will signify a red alert for many parents in "fox infested" areas who leave their infant children unattended in the garden during daylight hours.
Then there are the pet owners who fear their animals will fall victim to a bush-tailed scavenger.
And furious gardeners blame foxes for deep holes left in their flower beds, and for obnoxious deposits of faeces left on paths and patios.
It's bad enough getting dog owners to clear up their dogs' mess, but no such rules apply to Mr Fox's natural habits.
Also, their deposits have the toxic ingredient of toxascaris, which can lead to blindness in humans.
No wonder the anti-fox brigade wants "something done about it"!
There's no obvious answer, however.
Foxes are not a protected species, but they are not allowed to be gassed, poisoned or killed in lethal traps.
The other obvious legal alternatives of shooting (but not with crossbows!) or the use of humane traps have to be carried out by professionals.
Even if the irate householder has a gun, it is an offence to use the weapon near a highway or inhabited property.
It looks as though the Goring foxes will be free to continue their nightly patrols - unless a sinister change in their overall behaviour provokes effective action against them.
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Weather for Worthing
Sunday 27 May 2012
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