Cute Fox Low Poly Papercraft by Methakura (Free)

3 Sep, 2021

Known as the parable of the sly (sly and cunning as a fox) in some cultures, the red fox has many interesting facts to consider. Regardless of where the parable comes from, everyone would agree that the red fox is an adorable animal. They are almost the size of a medium-sized dog with fluffy red fur, which makes some people want to keep them.

Then, can these animals be used as pets? Did you know that this animal has a short life in the wild and has a lot in common with cats? Check out, come on, the following seven interesting facts about the red fox!

1. Not all red foxes are red

Red foxes get their name from the color of their fur. However, they are born brown or gray. This color will change after the age of one month. According to National Geographic, this color can vary, between golden, reddish-brown, silver, or even black.

Red fox cubs can also have a different color from their siblings or parents. But of course, red is the most common color that a red fox has.

2. They look like cats!

Red foxes have a lot in common with cats. First, they have the same pupil shape, which is vertically elongated. This makes it easier for them to see in the dark. When highlighted with a flashlight in the dark, their eyes will glow or appear to glow.

Second, whether it's a red fox or a cat, they can pull their paws in so they don't dull easily. Third, they both follow their prey silently with great patience, then pounce at the right moment.

This is quite interesting considering that the red fox belongs to the biological family Canidae (dog breed), but has similarities with cats that are in the Felidae family.

3. Only survive for 2-4 years in the wild

According to the American Expedition page, red foxes can only survive between 2-4 years in the wild. This figure can increase if they live in captivity, which is 10-12 years. There are quite a several predators that hunt them, including coyotes, bald eagles, wolves, bears, mountain lions, to humans.

4. Because they are adaptable, their population numbers are not threatened

Despite their short life, the red fox species is not threatened with extinction according to the IUCN. According to National Geographic, red foxes can give birth to between 2-12 cubs at a time.

Although humans are often hunted for sport, for their fur, because they are a threat to livestock, and because they are carriers of diseases such as rabies, red foxes have good adaptability, whether in their habitat or the human environment.

5. The figure of a good parent

Unlike wolves, red foxes have not herded animals. They like to live alone, although sometimes in groups to hunt. During the mating season, males will live with females during mating, pregnancy, and raising children.

Males provide support by bringing food and helping to raise their young until they are old enough to live on their own.

6. Have a wide vocal range

What does the fox say? Just so you know, foxes have a wide vocal range, you know! That means they can make a variety of sounds. According to the Wild Republic page, they can make 28 different types of sounds to communicate with their friends.

7. Red fox as a pet

In some parts of the United States, red foxes are legal as exotic pets, including fennec foxes, silver foxes, and arctic foxes. You can keep a red fox in certain states as a pet as long as you're responsible.

Although adorable, red foxes can be dangerous because they do not include domesticated animals such as dogs or cats. They are also known to smell bad and have a dangerous bite.