Fauna
Mammal

Culpeo Fox

Lycalopex culpaeus

Also known as Andean Fox, Andean Zorro, Paramo Wolf, Culpeo Zorro

Culpeo foxes patrol the varied landscapes of western South America, from high Andean punas and dry scrublands to temperate southern forests. As the second-largest native canine on the continent, they are adaptable predators that hunt small mammals like viscachas and introduced hares while opportunistically feeding on fruits and carrion. Monogamous pairs defend defined territories, communicating with sharp yips and deep growls to maintain family boundaries.

CarnivoreCanidAndean Native
Culpeo Fox reference1 / 7
(c) Luciano Massa, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Luciano Massa · cc-by
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preySouthern Viscacha, European Hare, Cavy
Predators
  • Puma
  • Andean Condor
  • Domestic Dog
ThreatsPoaching for fur, habitat destruction, retaliatory persecution by livestock farmers, and feral dogs
HabitatsAndean grasslands, puna, high-altitude scrublands, temperate rainforests, and desert valleys
Life span6–11 years in the wild
Classification
  1. OrderCarnivora
  2. FamilyCanidae
  3. GenusLycalopex
  4. SpeciesLycalopex culpaeus
Range & activity
Native
Safe observation
Interaction riskModerate
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is moderate
May bite or scratch if cornered or threatened; observe from a respectful distance.
Why it is dangerous
Equipped with sharp teeth and strong jaws capable of inflicting deep puncture wounds and lacerations if cornered.
How to recognize a risky encounter
Recognizable by its reddish-brown head and legs, tawny back, and long bushy tail with a dark tip.
What to do
Never approach, corner, or attempt to hand-feed wild foxes, and back away slowly if one approaches.
Responsible observation
  • Maintain Distance: Keep a safe distance of at least 15 meters to prevent startling the animal or provoking defensive behavior.
  • Securing Food: Store all food and garbage in animal-proof containers when camping in Andean national parks.
  • Pet Safety: Keep domestic dogs on a leash in native fox habitats to prevent fights and disease transmission.
Related species
Help improve the field guideSomething wrong?

Report a name, category, or profile issue for review.

Checking your Fauna account…