NextAnimal ListAnimal Profiles
Red Fox
Red Fox
Mammal. The red fox is one of 21 species of fox, and the largest member of the fox family. As adults, they hunt alone, not in packs as do wolves or dogs. Their incredible sense of hearing helps them locate prey through thick grass or even in underground burrows. They use scent as a form of communication. Foxes live in dens that they dig or borrow, often using the same den for several generations. Red foxes have been the subject of many tales, depicted as cunning and sly. They are particularly clever at making friends with cats and dogs, charming them to the point where they are allowed to share the same food dish.
Scientific Name Lifespan
Vulpes vulpes 3 years, 10 in captivity
Omnivore. Rabbits, rodents, game birds, beetles, fruit, insects, worms and carrion.
Predators and Threats
Wolves, coyotes, bears, lynx, eagles, and humans.
Range of habitats, including forests, woodlands, tundra, farmland, and suburbs; North America, and almost all of Eurasia; several populations in North Africa; introduced into Australia in the 1800's.