Fauna
Mammal

Red Fox

Vulpes vulpes

Also known as Common Fox

Red foxes are adaptable, solitary hunters easily recognized by their rusty-orange coat, black legs, and white-tipped brushy tail. They communicate using a wide array of vocalizations, including high-pitched barks and eerie screams, while navigating habitats ranging from dense forests to suburban backyards. Highly resourceful, these omnivorous canids cache excess food under leaf litter or snow to sustain themselves through lean periods.

MammalAdaptableNocturnal
Red Fox reference1 / 7
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—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preyMice, Rabbits, Voles
Predators
  • Wolves
  • Coyotes
  • Eagles
ThreatsVehicle collisions, habitat fragmentation, hunting, disease
HabitatsForests, grasslands, tundra, agricultural fields, suburban areas
Life span3–5 years in the wild (up to 15 years in captivity)
Classification
  1. OrderCarnivora
  2. FamilyCanidae
  3. GenusVulpes
  4. SpeciesVulpes vulpes
Range & activity
Native Introduced

Native range in olive; established introduced range in rust.

Safe observation
Interaction riskModerate
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is moderate
Can carry rabies and deliver a defensive bite if cornered; keep a respectful distance.
Why it is dangerous
Can carry transmissible pathogens such as rabies and sarcoptic mange, and may deliver a painful defensive bite if cornered or handled.
How to recognize a risky encounter
Look for a slender canid with rusty-red fur, dark lower legs, prominent pointed ears, and a bushy tail with a distinctive white tip.
What to do
Never corner, feed, or attempt to pet wild foxes; contact local wildlife authorities if an animal appears sick or disoriented.
Responsible observation
  • Maintain Distance: Enjoy observations from afar using binoculars or a zoom lens rather than approaching.
  • Avoid Feeding: Hand-feeding causes habituation and increases disease transmission risks.
  • Secure Garbage: Keep trash cans tightly closed to avoid attracting foxes into residential yards.
Related species
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Species set

Urban Dwellers

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