Species · GBIF taxon 5219243
Red Fox
Vulpes vulpesAlso known as Silver Fox, Cross Fox, Common Red Fox
Red foxes are highly adaptable, solitary hunters famous for their resourcefulness and striking rusty-red coats. They communicate using a diverse repertoire of over twenty vocalizations, including a characteristic eerie, high-pitched scream heard during the winter mating season. While they excel at catching small rodents with a dramatic, high-arching pounce, their opportunistic nature allows them to thrive in both pristine wilderness and bustling urban centers.
CrepuscularAdaptableWidespread
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Field Vole
- Wild Rabbit
- Deer Mouse
Predators
- Gray Wolf
- Coyote
- Golden Eagle
ThreatsHabitat fragmentation, vehicle collisions, hunting, and diseases like sarcoptic mange
HabitatsForests, grasslands, deserts, agricultural areas, and urban environments
Life span2 to 5 years in the wild, up to 14 years in captivity
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- SpeciesVulpes vulpes
Native Introduced
Native range in olive; established introduced range in rust.
Interaction riskModerate
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is moderate
- Can carry rabies and may bite if cornered; observe from a safe distance and never feed.
- Why it is dangerous
- Can transmit rabies, sarcoptic mange, and tapeworms, and may deliver a painful bite if cornered or habituated.
- How to recognize a risky encounter
- Look for a dog-like animal with a white-tipped bushy tail, black legs, and large pointed ears.
- What to do
- Never approach, corner, or attempt to touch a wild fox; contact local wildlife authorities if one appears sick.
Responsible observation
- Keep your distance: Respect their space, especially during the spring denning season when parents are protective.
- Do not feed: Feeding habituates foxes to humans, which often leads to conflict and euthanasia.
- Secure attractants: Keep pet food indoors and secure trash cans to prevent unwanted backyard visits.
Co-occurring Canid (c) Brian Gratwicke, some rights reserved (CC BY) · cc-by
Competitor and Predator Yathin S Krishnappa / CC BY-SA 3.0 · cc-by-sa
Close Relative Jonathen Pie https://unsplash.com/@r3dmax / CC0 · cc0
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