Mammal · GBIF taxon 6164300
Vulpes vulpes arabica
Vulpes vulpes arabicaAlso known as Arabian Fox, Desert Red Fox
Arabian red foxes navigate harsh desert landscapes with exceptional thermal adaptations, using exceptionally large ears to dissipate body heat and pinpoint subterranean prey. Their short, thin coats reflect heat during scorched daytime hours while providing insulation through chilly desert nights. Solitary and opportunistic foragers, they dig burrows into sand dunes or shelter in rocky crevices to rear pups and escape midday extremes.
MammalDesertNocturnal
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Desert Rodents
- Lizards
- Insects
Predators
- Golden Eagles
- Feral Dogs
- Arabian Leopards
ThreatsHabitat loss, vehicular strikes, persecution, competition with feral dogs
HabitatsArid deserts, mountains, coastal plains, urban fringes
Life span3 to 8 years in the wild
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilyCanidae
- SpeciesVulpes vulpes arabica
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskModerate
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is moderate
- Can carry rabies and bite if cornered; observe from a safe distance and never feed.
- Why it is dangerous
- Wild canids can carry viral pathogens like rabies and deliver severe bites if cornered or trapped.
- How to recognize a risky encounter
- Recognized by a slender 2.7 kg build, large pointed ears, short reddish-buff fur, and a white-tipped tail.
- What to do
- Keep a safe distance, secure domestic pets on leashes in desert areas, and never corner or feed wild foxes.
Responsible observation
- Observing at Night: Use a warm red spotlight during nocturnal drives to spot eye shine without startling them.
- Keep Distance: Never offer food or approach active dens, as habituation increases vehicle strike risks.
Competitor (c) Jan Ebr & Ivana Ebrová, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Jan Ebr & Ivana Ebrová · cc-by
Close Relative 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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