Frequently Asked Questions
I found an injured fox, what should I do?
If you find an injured fox, you should start by making a note of the location, but do not approach it without the guidance or help of a wildlife specialist.
Contact us and we will help you locate a wildlife rehabilitator nearby who can offer assistance to help the injured fox.
How can I help a fox that appears sick?
If you see a fox that may be ill, do not approach the animal before you have contacted a wildlife specialist. Humans may contract certain illnesses from foxes including mange.
Sarcoptic mange is a common condition you may encounter on a wild fox. Clinical signs of mange are hair loss, thick crusting, and intense itchiness. The infection is caused by a parasitic mite.
The mite itself is not deadly, but foxes suffering from manage are at risk of a number of infections, vision problems, and if left untreated starvation and organ failure.
Foxes can also become rabid, but it is very rare and transmission to humans is even rarer. Some signs to look for in a rabid fox include partial paralysis or the inability to use their limbs well, self-mutilation, acting aggressively for no reason, and circling or staggering. Do not be concerned if you see a fox out during the day, this is common.
The best course of action is to contact a trained wildlife rehabilitator or wildlife clinic. We can help you find local resources in your area.
What should I do if I encounter a wild fox?
It is common to see foxes out during the day, and it will most likely run away due to their natural fear of people. If the fox does not run away it is due to associating people with food.
These foxes can be easily scared away by making loud noises. Keep in mind that foxes are not dangerous to humans, but small pets like rabbits or chickens may be viewed as prey.
Foxes that you might encounter in more urban areas include red foxes and gray foxes. It is not uncommon for these species to create their dens under a porch or shed.
If you find a den, the fox is most likely preparing to raise its kits. Consider allowing the family to remain until the kits are old enough to leave the den with the parents (about 9 weeks old).
If you need the foxes to move, you can attempt to scare them away by mounting shiny party balloons close to the ground near the den entrance or using motion sensor alarms for a more permanent solution.
What should I do if I find a baby fox?
Contact us and please do not try to move or approach the fox.
It is best for a fox to be raised by its fox parents, and we may be able to help the den be located. It is not unusual for kits to be left alone while the parents hunt.
If you have reason to believe that the fox parents have been killed, we can help you locate a local wildlife rehabilitation center.