Urban foxes in UK cities are frequently subject to culling requests, though evidence suggests lethal control is ineffective and welfare-negative compared to non-lethal approaches.
Mange-affected foxes suffer intense pruritus, hair loss, weight loss and secondary infection over weeks to months before death. Urban lethal control by poison or trapping causes welfare harm to targeted individuals without resolving conflicts, as territories are rapidly refilled. Non-lethal approaches — securing waste, proofing gardens, deterring access — address the root cause of conflict without welfare cost to foxes. Mange treatment through medicated food bait is welfare-positive and effective.