Foxes
What to do if you have a close encounter with a fox?
- Allow the fox to escape by identifying and maintaining escape routes.
- Never approach or feed foxes.
- Act assertive, yell or wave your arms (act big, bad and loud).
- Keep pets under control to avoid creating additional stress for the animal.
- If the fox is acting unusual (approaching people, limping, staggering, or acting confused) do not approach, call Urban Biological Services at 306-975-3300.
Appearance
- Tail is large and bushy and is the most distinguishing feature. The tail is 70% of the head and body length.
- Ears are upright and large in relation to the head.
- Muzzle is long and slender.
- Fur colour is often rusty-red with yellow tints. Chin, throat and chest are typically white. The colour may vary from dark brown to pure white.
- Body length is 45-90 cm (18-35 in), height is 35-20 cm (14-20 in), weight is 2.2-14 kg (4.9-30.9 lbs), tail measures 32--53 cm (13-21 in).
Behaviour and Habitat
- Foxes live in family groups and often share territory. Many leave the group once they reach adulthood to secure their own territory.
- Burrows are divided into a den and temporary burrows.
- Foxes tend to leave pieces of prey around their dens, which can be a way to identify whether a den is being used by a fox or other animals. Their dens have a musty smell when they are in use.
- The home range of a fox is 4 to 8 km² around den sites.
- Despite being cautious, foxes are inquisitive animals and can become accustomed to people.
- Foxes have a wide vocal range from high-pitched whines to barks.
- Foxes are most active from dusk until dawn. They prefer to hunt in the early morning and late evening but can be active at any time.
- When hunting small animals, foxes use their hearing to locate prey. They may then leap high in the air with a characteristic pounce.
Diet
- Foxes are omnivores, eating both animals and plants including rodents, birds, fish, fruits and vegetables and will shift their diet to take advantage of the available food.
Co-existing with Foxes
- Foxes living near urban environments may find man-made structures (decks, sheds, wood piles) and landscapes appealing. Making your property unwelcoming to foxes can prevent conflicts.
- Prevent access to property or structures like decks and sheds.
- Use motion activated lights or sprinklers.
- Change the landscape by moving furniture or objects in the yard.
- Do not leave pet food outside.
- Clean around BBQs, bird feeders and fruit trees.