Species · GBIF taxon 5219236
Cape Fox
Vulpes chamaAlso known as Asse, Cama Fox, Silver-backed Fox
Cape foxes are small, elegant canids with striking silver-grey backs, tawny underparts, and large, sensitive ears that help them locate prey and dissipate heat in their arid homes. They form monogamous pairs that defend territories but typically forage alone under the cover of darkness. During the day, they shelter in underground burrows to escape the harsh African sun, emerging at dusk to hunt insects, rodents, and small reptiles.
NocturnalArid-adaptedCanid
Licensed reference(c) Yathin S Krishnappa, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA) · cc-by-sa
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Rodents
- Insects
- Lizards
Predators
- Black-backed Jackal
- Leopard
- Large Birds of Prey
ThreatsHabitat loss, agricultural persecution, and road collisions
HabitatsArid and semi-arid grasslands, shrublands, fynbos, and desert margins
Life span6 to 10 years in the wild
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilyCanidae
- SpeciesVulpes chama
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Capable of biting if cornered or handled; observe from a safe distance.
- Why it is dangerous
- Can deliver a sharp, defensive bite if cornered, handled, or threatened.
- How to recognize a risky encounter
- Distinguished by its small size, exceptionally large ears, and a bushy tail with a black tip.
- What to do
- Never attempt to corner, feed, or handle wild foxes; maintain a respectful distance.
Responsible observation
- Spotting at night: Use a red-filtered spotlight during night drives in arid reserves to spot their reflective eyes without blinding them.
- Look for burrows: Search sandy soils near low shrubs for active dens, which often have multiple entrances and scattered insect remains.
- Listen for calls: Listen at dusk for their high-pitched yips and soft whines used to communicate with family members.
Frequent Companion Yathin S Krishnappa / CC BY-SA 3.0 · cc-by-sa
Competitor Close Relative 
Close Relative (c) Stacey Robert Greenstein, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA), uploaded by Stacey Robert Greenstein · cc-by-sa
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