Red Fox
Vulpes vulpes
Least ConcernFast Facts
About
The red fox is the largest and most widespread member of the true foxes, instantly recognised by its rich russet coat, white-tipped bushy tail and black-stockinged legs. It is the most broadly distributed wild carnivore on Earth, thriving everywhere from arctic tundra to city centres.
A supremely adaptable generalist, it has colonised farmland, woodland, moorland and increasingly the urban environment, where it scavenges with ease. Its sharp senses, particularly acute hearing, allow it to detect small prey rustling beneath grass or snow.
Behaviour
Red foxes are largely solitary hunters, maintaining loose family groups centred on an underground den or 'earth'. They are famed for their 'mousing' leap, a high pounce used to pin small rodents beneath the snow.
Vocalisations include an eerie, high-pitched scream used during the winter breeding season, as well as barks and gekkering calls during disputes.
Did you know?
- A fox can hear a mouse squeak from around 100 metres away
- Red foxes are thought to use the Earth's magnetic field to help aim their pounce on prey
- Urban foxes have adapted so well that densities in some cities exceed those in the countryside
- A group of foxes is called a 'skulk' or a 'leash'
Distribution
Throughout the Northern Hemisphere, including Europe, Asia, North America and North Africa; introduced to Australia
