Fox Facts
Some Interesting Red Fox Facts You May Not Know
Smart like a fox is an old adage we have all heard that has truth; there are many other red fox facts that you may not know, and just might surprise and interest you.
There are several fox species, including the grey fox, the Arctic fox and the red fox; facts of interest on other fox species found in other parts of the world may be different than those found in North America. The red fox is the one that primarily comes to mind when thinking “fox”, with reddish colored fur predominate on the body, and white markings accenting the belly, muzzle and tip of the tail.
The red fox is a member of the dog family, although its habits and actions are more akin to that of the feline family. Its size is comparable to that of a large cat, approximately 15 inches high. They can be found in just about every region of North America, Central America and Europe, with a preference of living in grassy and woody areas. Solitary creatures, they can be found roaming generally in the evening hours searching for their food. Highly adaptable to their environment, red fox facts indicate that this animal lives just as easily in your own backyard as they do in their preferred habitats.
The diet of the red fox, facts show, is a varied one. They will feed on corn, nuts, berries and plant life as well as small mammals like rabbits, rodents and birds. With cat-like movements, the red fox stalk their victims; sometimes delaying the meal to play with their catch before the kill. They have been known to pursue mice for the simple act of playing with it, leaving the dead body.
The appearance of a red fox in a residential neighborhood is not an automatic indication that the creature is rabid; a common misconception which fox facts prove otherwise. While they are very prone to acquiring the disease, often the fox has simply taken up residence. Their presence can actually benefit the neighborhood; ridding the area of undesirable mice, rats and insects. Rarely does a red fox attempt to capture a dog or cat as its prey, and even more rarely do they ever attack humans. Never at any time should a red fox or any wild animal be approached, however.
One of the most interesting of the red fox facts is that involving their keen sense of hearing. So sharp that they are able to hear prey burrowing and digging underground, this acute hearing helps the red fox to pinpoint the specific location of their victims.
The adaptability of the red fox is the feature that has earned its reputation as an intelligent creature. This and other fox facts can educate the general public about the animal to help us live in harmony.