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Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes)

Night Vision Video of Red Fox | (View MPEG-1 Video) | Woodbury, MN

Cunning Canid

Red Fox are among the most cunning predators in Minnesota. They have been known to repeatedly herd squirrels in its territory up the same tree. Once the fox had conditioned squirrels to a certain escape route, it will suddenly appear at the base of the tree. As the panicked squirrels dash towards their engrained route, the fox gets a meal to reward its cunning.

Dog or Cat?

The Fox, like the wolf, coyote and domestic dog, is a canine. The slit eyes --usually behind rumors linking the species to the cat family-- are actually a special adaptation that allow them to see better on late-night forays.

Eyes aren't the only factor that set Fox apart from their canine brothers, either. Unlike other North American canines, Fox have furry paw pads and occupy an unusual spot in the food chain. While Coyote and Wolves are almost entirely carnivorous, feeding off animals (living or dead), Fox are omnivorous; scientists estimate that over half their yearly diet is composed of fruits, berries, and vegetation. Another big difference between Fox and other canines is the niche they fill on the "food chain". While Coyotes and Wolves tend to be top level predators, Fox preyed upon by other animals --even canines! Coyote are one of the Red Fox's main predators!

Interesting Facts:

• Fox urine is often employed by gardeners to keep rabbits and other rodents away from their crops.

Multimedia:

Red Fox | Photo Credit: Alissa Sinclair | Boundary Waters Region	Red Fox ; taxidermied | credit: Karen Rose | Stillwater, MN

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	National Audubon Society's Field Guide to Mammals
	Tracking and the Art of Seeing

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