A nationwide program has mapped how foxes spread from south-eastern Australia to as far away as the Pilbara in just 70 years.

The research, from the University of Adelaide's Environment Institute and Curtin University, used historical records and DNA evidence to follow the pest animal's movement since their introduction to the country.

The study's first recording of foxes being released in Australia was in Geelong in 1870.

Lead author Sean Tomlinson said foxes then went on to colonise all land in Australia suitable for them to live in by 1940, including land in the north-west of Western Australia.

"Foxes are already understood to be hugely adaptable, and along with cats, are the main extinction driver for most Australian species," he said.

"It's stark when you see foxes spreading like

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