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:

Todd (Male) – Estimated Birthdate February 26, 2021

*Our red fox was injured as a kit, surviving as a result of professional rehabilitation. The Utica Zoo is privileged to provide a home for this rescued animal, who now receives dedicated care to accommodate his 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 the strong and powerful odor they make when marking their territory. Throughout this territory, foxes will live in small family groups and eat various small animals in addition to berries and some plants. They are nocturnal and only emerge from their dens when the sun goes down. They also have very soft and popular fur that they have been hunted for. Additionally, thanks to their vast territory, red foxes are a common symbol or character in folklore and mythology around the world. 

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.

The Utica Zoo will close at 3pm on 12/31 and will reopen with normal hours on 1/1!