Red Fox
Basic Information:
Scientific Name: Vulpes vulpes
Habitat: Red foxes are one of the most widely distributed animals in the world. They live all around the Northern Hemisphere in a variety of habitats.
Diet: Red foxes are omnivores, but primarily feed on small mammals and birds.
Size: 1.2 to 1.8 feet tall / 1.5 to 3 feet long
Weight: 7 to 15 pounds
Lifespan: 3 to 4 years in the wild. 10 to 12 in human care.
Distribution Map:
I.U.C.N. Conservation Status:
What does this mean?
Least Concern – a species determined by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (I.U.C.N.) to be pervasive, abundant, and thriving.
Our Red Fox:
Theo (Male) – Estimated Birthdate February 26, 2021
Todd (Male) – Estimated Birthdate February 26, 2021
*Our red foxes were injured as kits, surviving as a result of professional rehabilitation. The Utica Zoo is privileged to provide a home for these rescued animals, who now receive dedicated care to accommodate their physical and visual impairments.*
About Red Foxes:
Red foxes can be found throughout the Northern Hemisphere in a variety of areas from suburbs to deserts to tundras. They are quite common and its easy to know if a fox is in your area due to their strong and powerful odor. They use scent in order to mark their territory as well as to communicate with other foxes.
Did You Know?!
- When hunting is good and food is prevalent, red foxes are known to cache excess food to return to later when needed!
- When a fox is pouncing a mouse, it jumps straight up in the air and points all 4 legs straight down to pin the mouse to the ground as the fox lands.
- When a fox sleeps, it curls up and wraps its tail around its face to keep its nose warm.