Description
Scientific Name: Vulpes macrotis
Lifespan: 12 years in captivity and up to 7 years in the wild
The tiniest foxes in North America are called kit foxes. Their huge ears provide them excellent hearing and aid in regulating their body temperature. Typically, they have a grey coat with rusty undertones and a black tail tip. Their hue ranges from yellowish to grey, with the belly and inner ears typically being lighter than the back, which is typically darker than the remainder of the coat. Kit foxes have recognizable dark spots on their noses. In this species, males are just a little bit bigger than females.
Behavior
Aside from the breeding season, kit foxes live solitary lives most of the time. They spend the day in their burrows and come out at night since they spend most of their time in the hot, dusty desert regions. They have, however, also been spotted foraging for food throughout the day. They only protect their burrows, where they live in tiny families, and are not particularly territorial.
Two or more groups may share the same region, and they do not engage in conflict over it. They typically take care to avoid going out to forage together. Like other fox species, kit foxes make the typical fox call, but they may make barking noises in response to perceived threats or even a “hacking growl” when they come into contact.
Distribution
The Southwestern United States, as well as northern and central Mexico, are home to kit foxes. The arid interior of Oregon is where their range extends to its northernmost point. Southwest Colorado serves as the eastern limit. Through Nevada, Utah, southeast California, Arizona, New Mexico, and western Texas, kit foxes can be found. They favour arid environments including grasslands, chaparral, and desert scrub. They can also be discovered in rural and urban settings.
As Pet
It is a species that is inherently curious, has no fear of people, and can develop strong ties with its owner. It is an omnivore in the wild. It should be provided a varied diet as a pet that includes high quality, cooked or raw meats, protein-rich dog food, veggies, and fruits. To encourage their natural foraging instinct, special gifts may include mealworms or crickets that are concealed.
This species rarely makes noise, but when it does, the noises may include growls or low barks. One of the fox species that is simplest to litter- or potty-pad-train is this one. Get a cat tree or cat apartment for this species because foxes enjoy climbing. Give this fox a sandbox so it can dig holes—that’s one of its favourite things to do.
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