Enemies of foxes. Brief information about the fox Where the common fox lives

Red fox or common fox major representative a genus of fox from the Canidae family. The animal has an elongated muzzle and a fluffy long tail, which the fox uses as a warm blanket to cover its nose and front paws while resting.

The tail can reach sixty centimeters in length. The fur of a fluffy fox is long and beautiful, and also very warm. Depending on the habitat, the color and tonal saturation of the fur may vary, but basically the back and sides of foxes are bright red, and the belly is white.

The characteristic black stockings or blotches are clearly visible on the paws. But the main one hallmark The red fox has, of course, a white tip of its tail and sharp black ears.

The fox's paws are quite powerful and muscular, despite the fact that they are a little short. Thanks to them and an even more powerful tail, the fox makes very decent jumps in pursuit of prey.

These qualities enable the fox to be in no way inferior to many predators in the struggle for life.

Foxes, bred in captivity on fur farms, come in unusual platinum and silver-black colors.

If a fox with a fur coat of this color manages to escape and catch the eye of hunters, it becomes the object of instant persecution, because... Fox skins of this color are very valuable.

Where does the red fox live?

The red fox lives almost everywhere on the planet: in Europe, Asia, North America, in North Africa, in Australia, with the exception of the Tundra and islands.

In Europe alone, the vast population of the common fox includes more than fifteen subspecies.

Foxes are able to adapt to any climatic conditions.

What does a fox eat and who does it hunt?

The red fox is a predator, so its diet is appropriate: small animals, rodents, hares, destroy the nests of wood grouse and geese, hunt roe deer cubs, do not disdain carrion, different insects and beetles.

Well, domestic hens and chicks, when the fox manages to get into the chicken coop, become tasty prey.

The most interesting thing is that foxes often destroy various cereals, in particular oats, when there is no way to get to anything meaty, and cause significant damage to agricultural crops.

It’s not for nothing that the fox is called cunning, she has a huge amount different ways hunting and catching prey.

The fox simply pushes the hedgehog into the water so that it opens up and can be grabbed by the stomach, where there are no needles. It easily identifies mice, gophers and other rodents by sound and digs them out from under the snow in winter. In general, mice are a well-known delicacy for foxes, and in some regions the population of common individuals depends directly on the number of rodents.

Foxes hunt geese in pairs, while one fox distracts the gaping goose, the second quickly attacks the prey.

The fox is able to adapt to the habits of any animal that it has planned for lunch.

Foxes hunt around the clock when prey is discovered, but of course night is the main time for hunting.

When a fox walks through the snow, it places its hind paws strictly in the tracks of its front paws, forming a kind of chain.
Foxes that live near rivers eat fish with pleasure and are often caught during spawning or in shallow water.

In total, the diet of the red fox includes about four hundred species of animals and several dozen species of plants.

Foxes living in the desert are content with the meat of various snakes and lizards.

How a red fox reproduces and has offspring

Cubs of the common fox are born in most cases in mid-spring. When foxes plan to have offspring, they dig a deep hole, although if they find a ready-made one, they immediately occupy it.

As a rule, a female fox gives birth to from four to twelve puppies, as the cubs are also called. The fox's gestation period lasts from six to eight weeks, and after the fox cubs are born, the red mother feeds them with milk for a month and a half.

Little fox cubs look like wolf cubs, they can only be distinguished by the white tip of their tail. Fox cubs fully mature by the age of two and, having become adults, begin to hunt and kill prey on their own.

Red foxes form stable mating pairs and the male takes a direct part in raising the offspring.

Enemies of the red fox

The main exterminators of the red fox, of course, were and are hunters who, for the sake of beautiful and expensive fur, exterminate a huge number of foxes, which has an irreversible impact on the population of these beautiful animals in many regions.

And in the forest, the fox competes for prey and, of course, is at enmity with wolves and other large animals.

In many photos, the fox appears with a sly face, which is completely true.

Where is the fox's home?

To live, foxes build a den on open place, in the grass or in the snow. The fox either digs the hole itself or can evict some animal, an arctic fox or a badger.

The hole has several entrances with underground holes for possible escape in case of danger. An old fox has several holes in different places where it takes refuge in case of impending danger.

Fox photo

Compared to other predators, the common fox, red ( Vulpes vulpes) gives the impression of an affectionate animal. But the peculiarities of its structure and life indicate that it is a rather malicious predator. It is not for nothing that in fairy tales she is called either the little fox-sister or the sly fox.

Like Gray wolf, the common fox belongs to the canine family and in its appearance resembles a dog, but differs from it in very characteristic features.

Brief description of the fox

The common fox is a medium-sized animal, about 90 cm long. The body is elongated, slender, flexible, and dignified. The muzzle is elongated and sharp. The ears are large, pointed, always alert. The legs are relatively short, which provides the ability to crawl as the fox stalks and attacks its prey. At the same time, the legs of the common fox are sinewy and strong, which allows it to make sudden long jumps. Her fluffy tail, which exceeds half the length of her body, helps her in jumping.

Thanks to these features, the common fox, without having such strength as brown bear and other animals, such strong fangs as those of wolves, and retractable claws for capturing prey, as those of wild cats, is not inferior in its viability to other predatory animals of Ukraine. The body of the common fox is covered with thick fur of a bright red color, which is quite changeable. It changes not only depending on the time of year, but also on the area in which foxes live. In the northern regions, the colors of foxes are more red, in the southern regions they are paler. The color of the tail is somewhat darker, and its tip is always white.

Where does the common fox live?

The red fox is one of the predatory animals of Ukraine, widely distributed throughout the territory. The fox lives mainly on open area, which is interspersed with groves and copses. She hides in burrows from persecution, bad weather, and when breeding young. On warm sunny days, the common fox rests on the ground after wandering at night. He goes out hunting, usually in the evening.

What does a fox eat in the forest?

A very cautious and secretive animal with a well-developed sense of smell and exceptionally acute hearing, the common fox easily finds a wide variety of prey, often sneaking up on it unnoticed. The fox in the forest feeds mainly on various mammals: from small shrews to young hares and even roe deer calves. The fox catches especially a lot of mouse-like rodents - mice and voles. Fox hunting for rodents even received the special name “mousing” (exceptionally dexterous and skillful). It is especially typical for winter period In the woods. In the snow, in mouse-mousing areas where the common fox dug out rodents from under the snow, you can see its numerous tracks that stretch in a chain that is formed during its run. The tracks of the hind legs exactly match those of the front ones.

The tracks of the common fox differ from the tracks of a wolf or a dog not only in their smaller size, but also in their character
a separate print (on the fox's footprint, the prints of the pads of the two middle toes are pushed forward so much that you can put a match between them and the prints of the pads of the two lateral toes).

Birds and their eggs, which they sometimes obtain from ground nests, play a lesser role in the diet of the common fox. She does not disdain carrion either. In summer, the fox also consumes various amphibians, lizards, beetles and their larvae. At this time and in the fall, he also eats berries: blueberries, lingonberries.

Fox breeding

The burrows in which the common fox makes a lair for raising cubs are usually dug in the most remote part of the forest, in thickets of small forest areas, which alternate with cultivated fields, bushes or meadows, on the slopes of ravines, on dry hills with sandy soil. The dug hole goes slopingly 1-1.5 m deep, and then stretches underground for 3-4 m. Feature fox hole - several exit holes. In such a hole, usually already at the end of March, once a year, the female, after an 8-week pregnancy, gives birth to five to six fox cubs. After 2 weeks, the fox cubs begin to see clearly, begin to develop quickly, and already at the end of April - beginning of May they crawl out of the hole, play with each other, and when tired, lie calmly, warming up in the sun.

The fox cubs do not leave the parental hole throughout the summer. In June they already participate in hunting together with adults. Young foxes reach sexual maturity at two years of age, but there are cases when young females begin
reproduce next year.

What benefits does the fox bring?

The common fox has a large economic importance as an exceptionally active destroyer of harmful rodents, especially in the steppe regions. It is interesting that during the years of mass reproduction of rodents, the fox gnaws significantly more rodents than it can eat. Famous Interesting Facts, when the fox destroyed about 100 voles in one night. By feeding on insect pests, the fox benefits forestry by protecting young forest plantations from damage. Great importance The red fox is also a valuable hunting and industrial fur-bearing animal.

On next video look how an ordinary fox, or rather a whole family of foxes, has adapted to survive in its environment. Possessing incredible cunning and dexterity, a fox can live next to a person and still remain unnoticed.

Common or red fox (Vulpes vulpes) - widespread carnivorous mammal canine family.

The fox is familiar to everyone, at least in Russian folk tales, where she invariably takes the place of a cunning, quick-witted and far-sighted hero, where she is usually referred to respectfully as Lisa Patrikeevna. In fact, this animal, the size of a small dog, is really smart, but not as smart as our usual pets - dogs and cats. However, the fox is smart enough to successfully survive Russian frosts and find food even in the most treeless areas.

Foxes, which have learned to adapt to a wide variety of climatic conditions, are extremely widespread. Their habitat is almost the entire territory of Europe and Asia, North America and North Africa. These animals also successfully acclimatized in Australia, where they were brought in the mid-19th century.

The fox lives in a wide variety of regions - from mountains and southern steppes to taiga expanses and tundra. These predators can be found in places where no one has gone before, and near rural outskirts. Being an ecologically flexible animal, the fox adapts surprisingly well to the most different conditions habitat, however, prefers open landscapes: forests, hills, ravines, fields, forest-steppes. She is not very fond of the remote taiga, snow-covered areas and desert.

Description of the fox

The common fox is the most close-up view kind of foxes. The body length of the animal is 60-90 cm, weight – 6-10 kg.

The color and size of foxes vary in different areas. There is a pattern: the further north, the larger and brighter the foxes are, the further south, the smaller the size of the animal, and the fur loses its brightness and becomes dull. The most popular color of foxes is a bright red back with a vague dark pattern, a white (rarely black) belly, and dark paws. In southern latitudes, the color of fox fur varies from light gray to sandy yellow.

The undoubted decoration of any fox is its tail: fluffy, with white underfur and a black tip. Sometimes its length is almost equal to the length of the animal’s body.

The fox's body is light, dry and agile: the animal is capable of bending, crawling along the ground while hiding prey, and stretching out while running fast. The legs are thin and sinewy, flexible at the joints. Like most animals that can run fast, the fox runs using its toes. This explains the calloused, hard soles and short, blunt claws. The great length and strength of the hind legs contributes not only to rapid movement on level ground, but also to making unexpected jumps and turns, in which the long tail acts like a steering wheel and helps maintain balance. The same tail, fluffy, like most of the body, serves as a blanket for the fox during sleep. Curled up in a ball and wrapping its tail in front, the fox uses it as a muff, immersing the coldest parts of the body - the legs and the muzzle covered with short hair - in the long soft hair. If you look closely at the animal's head, it is not difficult to see main features predator. Relatively large and erect ears indicate excellent hearing, a strongly protruding muzzle with a thin nose indicates an equally perfect sense of smell, lively, yellow and slightly slanted eyes with a slit-shaped pupil (set vertically, like in cats, but slightly more rounded) - o vision adapted to darkness.

Fox lifestyle

Foxes usually lead night image life, but there are also those who hunt for food in the morning and daytime hours, and sleep at night.

Foxes can dig very long and multi-chambered burrows in the slopes of ravines or hills, but they are not used as permanent homes. Burrows serve for breeding and sometimes as shelter from danger. Here the female gives birth and brings 5-6 cubs. For safety, the fox hole has several exits - holes. The fox cubs live in the main chamber underground, but they can escape from the enemy (for example, from the fox terrier, a breed of dog specially bred for hunting foxes) through emergency exits. Sometimes the fox uses other people's holes - badgers or marmots, driving out clean owners with their sharp and strong smell.

Foxes do not hibernate. Throughout the cold season, they wander around their territory and rarely use their burrows.

The fox is a cautious animal, but at the same time it is not short of curiosity. An empty tin can, a colored piece of paper - whatever comes her way, she will definitely examine it. What motivates a fox when it comes out to the noise of a car or train - simple curiosity or curiosity related to personal safety? The beast seems to be checking who has appeared in the forest and who to expect trouble from.

Each animal has its own area where it lives and gets its food, and if the “borders” were violated by another fox, the integrity of the territory is restored through a fight.

What do foxes eat?

The fox is a typical predator. Its main and most constant prey are mice, for which both the thin incisors and the narrow snout are excellently adapted for grasping.

In winter you can watch a fox mouse. If the snow is shallow, then the animal senses the mouse under it, and from above, using its sense of smell, “monitors” the movement of prey under the snow cover. The fox stands on its hind legs, waits, and then suddenly, in a jump, rushes with its front paws to the place where the victim is hiding under the snow layer. Only the difficulty of catching mice in the snow or in the quantity necessary to feed puppies usually forces one to turn to catching birds and large rodents.

In general, the fox is an omnivorous animal. Everything that comes under her paw alive is used for food: from snails and beetles to hares and black grouse sleeping under the snow. It happens that Patrikeevna visits chicken coops, as well as city dumps, where there is always something to profit from. She does not disdain plant foods - berries and fruits. The animal happily catches fish and crayfish, and sometimes even digs up earthworms.

The fox is of great economic importance as an exterminator of rodents and insect pests. At the same time, foxes are carriers of acute infectious disease– rabies.

Family matters

“Wedding time” for foxes begins in February-March. Several males court one female at once, without leaving her a single step. Fights for the “beloved” between males at this time are inevitable. The strongest of the strongest becomes the father of a family, which usually has 4-6 puppies, sometimes more (up to 12-13). The duration of a fox's pregnancy is 52-56 days. Puppies are born blind and deaf, but covered with fluffy brown fur. Already by the twentieth day, the fox cubs begin to crawl out of the hole, but even up to one and a half months they continue to feed on their mother’s milk. The rapidly growing young animals become increasingly difficult to feed, and parents (and both mother and father take part in raising the younger generation) begin to teach them the wisdom of hunting. Now the puppies already run away from the hole at decent distances and begin to catch small animals - beetles, grasshoppers, etc. Usually by August the young animals have grown so much that they can live independently. Foxes become sexually mature at the age of one year.

In natural conditions, the life expectancy of a fox is rarely more than 7 years, but in captivity they can live up to 20 years. This difference is due to the fact that in nature this animal itself can become prey for larger predators - bears, wolves, wolverines, and even birds - hawks, eagles, falcons and golden eagles, and even for amateur hunters the fox is desirable hunting trophy. Some people keep foxes as pets, although the phrase itself “ domestic fox"quite controversial. But nevertheless, in captivity, foxes live much longer for obvious reasons - people take care of them, they live in peace, do not waste energy searching for food, etc.

In contact with

As children, we all listened to fairy tales about an unusually smart and cunning animal. The fox is indeed distinguished by its resourcefulness and natural ingenuity, which allows it to quickly find prey and hide from its pursuers. Famous owners of fluffy tails have been able to settle in almost any natural area. Fox - common predator forests, steppes, mountains and deserts. It would seem that everyone knows everything about this mammal. However, starting our story, we see that our description of the fox is quite stereotypical and is based on a folklore image. Even this world-famous beast has its secrets.

Fox classification

Fox is common name a genus from the wolf subfamily, which unites 11 species. Its structure is sometimes disputed by adding or excluding certain species. For example, they are classified in this genus because of the similarity in appearance of the Arctic fox. Until now, many zoologists cannot decide which family the polar fox belongs to. While this beast occupies a position outside of a certain clan. The following species are considered true foxes:

• common fox;
• Afghan fox;
• Bengal fox;
• American fox;
• American corsac;
• African fox;
• corsac;
• South African fox;
• sand fox;
• fennec;
• Tibetan fox.

The closest relatives of foxes are the following genera:

• arctic foxes (arctic fox);
• maikongi (maikong or savannah fox);
• bat-eared foxes (big-eared fox);
• gray foxes (island and gray fox);
• small foxes (small fox);
• South American foxes (Securan, Paraguayan, Andean, Brazilian, Darwin and South American foxes);

Despite the striking resemblance, maned wolf not related to foxes. This unusual animal is a relict species that managed to survive the extinction of most of its former society.

Where does the fox live? Habitat

Nature has rewarded foxes with the ability to adapt to a wide variety of natural conditions. These mammals were able to confidently spread to almost all continents, with the exception of South America and the harsh Antarctica. The habitat chosen by different types of foxes includes:

• North America, as well as some islands near the mainland (American corsac, arctic fox, red fox, island, gray fox);
• South America(Maikong, Securan, Brazilian, Paraguayan, Darwin, South American, Little and Andean foxes);
• the entire territory of Eurasia (Arctic fox, corsac fox, common fox, Tibetan fox, sand fox, Bengal fox (from India), Afghan (Bukhara) fox);
• the coast of Africa and the Nile Valley (fennec fox, red fox, big-eared fox, South African fox, African sand fox);
• Southern Australia (red fox).

The wide coverage of territories explains the great diversity of species of these mammals and the huge number of adaptations for survival.

Many people mistakenly believe that all types of foxes live exclusively in European and Siberian forests. Only a few species of these animals settled there. Foxes are sedentary animals and try to choose a suitable place to live. They carefully examine the corner they like, remembering the location of ravines, holes, rivers and hills in order to profitably use them for shelters. The red fox hides well from its enemies, confusing and covering its tracks, suddenly disappearing right in front of its enemy's nose. For such extraordinary ingenuity, the talented strategist received the title of cunning and intelligent beast.

In the dry steppes of Asia, in hilly areas with low vegetation, you can find deep burrows left by badgers and other animals favored by a cunning predator. The steppe fox does not like when its peace is disturbed, so it fiercely guards its temporary possessions. Due to the arid climate, these animals have to constantly migrate. Steppe fox, or corsac, travels from the Volga delta and the Caucasus to the mountains Western Siberia. Very rarely they move away from their usual anchorage. Sometimes these cunning animals also enter the forest-steppe, where the common fox gives them tough competition, often capturing prey from a smaller relative.

Mountain foxes

Mountain foxes are inhabitants of harsh rocks. Their diet and lifestyle depend on the altitude of their “living zone”. For example, the Crimean mountain fox builds abandoned burrows, holes in rocks and stones, caves and even tree hollows. This diversity is due to the fact that the Tauride Mountains, covered with forest, are quite low with warm climate. The Tibetan fox lives on the high Tibetan plateau and is sometimes found in areas north of the Himalayas. These animals dig their own homes and lead an extremely secretive lifestyle. Scientists still don’t know exactly how long highland foxes live and what they eat.

In semi-deserts and deserts the conditions are truly extreme! All inhabitants of this dry and hot area will need to collect all the devices that nature has given them in order to survive. The sandy area without a single hint of vegetation and coolness does not allow the spread of large herbivores and rodents. That is why only a miniature eared fox, for example, can live here. These animals settle near small dry bushes or in a tiny clearing of sparse grass where they make burrows. In their shelters they wait for the night. What the fennec fox eats lives right next to the mink. The animal pulls roots out of the sand and hunts small rodents, reptiles and insects.

On far north, in the land of eternal snow, furry cunning creatures also live. The polar fox even inhabited the territory on the islands in the North Arctic Ocean. The usual natural areas for arctic foxes are tundra and forest-tundra. The polar fox settles in hilly areas where shelter and food can be easily found. Arctic foxes are distributed from Alaska to Chukotka. These animals thrive in icy Greenland and on other islands abandoned in cold waters. As the weather gets colder, Arctic foxes move south, temporarily settling in new places.

Foxes are incredibly beautiful animals to which songs, poems, fables and even paintings have been dedicated. Depending on their habitat, these predators acquire unusual appearance features compared to the usual forest beauties.

The fox got its poetic name for its coat painted in gold. The Slavs always observed the inhabitants of the forest, noticing any distinctive details of appearance, behavior or even voice. Translated from Old Church Slavonic, “fox” meant “yellowish.” That’s why cheerful red mushrooms are called “chanterelles.”

There is another version of the interpretation of the word. A number of etymologists believe that “fox” is derived from the Slavic “lis” (wife, husband). This theory is also explained in different ways: some explain that some species of these predators create monogamous pairs and raise cubs together, others suggest that this is what they called cunning wives. There is a third assumption. The word "fox" comes from the Polish "liszka" (dashing). Thus, the mischievous nature of the animal is noticed.

All foxes have a fluffy long tail, which not only decorates the animal, but also serves as a useful adaptation for survival. It allows you to develop higher speed when running, being a special pole for balance. The tail also serves as an effective rudder. When a predator (for example, a dog) is chasing a red-haired rogue and is about to grab it, the fluffy train turns sharply at a right angle and the animal instantly turns to the side. The pursuer rushes on in bewilderment.

Many have probably wondered: “Why do foxes have a white tip of their tail?” The answer is quite simple. A fox in the forest must constantly monitor its cubs. In order not to lose sight of the little ones among the foliage, a white beacon was created, which every little one cheerfully raises for mom.

The fox stores some in its tail nutrients"for a rainy day". This fluffy tool also serves as a blanket for the animal. In cold weather, the fox covers its nose or cubs with its tail. Animals can even communicate using this body part! When raised, it shows the strength of the beast and its readiness to defend territory and prey.

Did you know that a fox's tail smells like violets? Right at its base there is a fairly large gland that produces the aroma of flowers. This is the perfect camouflage device! When escaping from pursuit, a fox in the forest covers its tracks and hides its scent.

How much does a fox weigh?

Depending on the species, foxes can reach lengths from 40 cm to 90 cm. Tail length adult ranges from 20 to 60 cm. And weight – from 1.5 to 14 kg.

The eyes of a fox are one of the animal's main weapons when hunting. Vision is tuned to moving objects, which allows you to instantly notice potential prey. Even a butterfly flying past will not be able to hide from a clever predator. Also, all types of foxes are perfectly oriented in the dark, since it is at night that animals go hunting. Not a single bird sleeping peacefully on the ground or in the thickets will go unnoticed.

Foxes have excellent visual memory. This allows predators to remember places of refuge and paths. This ability is very important for survival in the harsh conditions of the wild.

The condition of an animal’s fur coat must be acceptable for normal existence in a certain area. All types of foxes are carefully prepared for the environmental conditions in which they will live.

In summer, the coat color of these predators is camouflage. Neither you nor the small animals will notice the approach of the fox. In the north, arctic foxes are dressed in white fur that blends with the snow. In the mountains, where rocks and poor soil combine, foxes camouflage themselves in spotted (gray with ocher) coats. Residents of dry deserts naturally received yellow or light ocher fur. In the forest, the common fox with its dull red robe hides well against the background of branches, earth and fallen leaves.

Until now, scientists have not figured out why the fur of these predators does not adapt in color to other seasons. The fact is that many types of foxes become brighter with the onset of winter. Red, brown and black animals stand out against the background white snow, which, oddly enough, does not affect the efficiency of hunting.

However, depending on the temperature, the structure of the fox's coat changes. The animal adapts to nature. In summer, the fox's fur is sparse, dull, without undercoat, and lies tightly to the body. This makes it much easier to keep your body cool. In winter, after seasonal molting, foxes dress in thick clothes. The thick undercoat prevents heat from escaping and keeps you warm, like a down jacket. The upper fibers are impregnated with a special secretion that prevents the predator from getting wet (foxes often fall asleep in the snow).

All foxes are natural hunters. These animals easily get food wherever they live. What a fox eats depends on the area in which it lives, the time of year and the type of animal. It is also worth paying attention to the age of the predator: young animals are afraid to attack large prey.

A small sand fox in deserts and semi-deserts can easily smell edible roots, hear the movements of lizards, tasty beetles and their larvae, scorpions under the ground, and skillfully attack a gaping rodent. The animal obtains moisture directly from its meager diet.

There is not much suitable food in the north. However, the polar fox was able to adapt to the harsh nature. The animal’s diet includes more than a hundred species of animals and almost 30 species of plants: algae, blueberries, herbs and cloudberries! Everything that the fox can find, she will immediately eat or hide. The polar fox's diet consists of many species of small rodents (for example, lemmings) and birds common in the taiga. Sometimes arctic foxes catch or find fish on the shore and overwhelm stray reindeer calves. Arctic foxes don't mind carrion, so they form a retinue polar bear, which often shares part of the seal carcass with a small predator.

Almost everyone knows what the common fox eats. The favorite delicacy of this predator are small mice, which winter time become the main source of food. The common fox also eats hares, but hunting them requires a lot of energy. The predator often raids the homes of these animals, eating the cubs. A cunning fox will not refuse to climb into the nest of some bird to feast on eggs and chicks. The animal will also enjoy eating berries, fruits and herbs.

Contrary to popular belief, foxes rarely attack chickens and other poultry. An animal decides to do such an act only in critical situation when it is difficult to get food in the forest. The predator often spoils cereal crops, which it eats in an unripe state.

Steppe foxes hunt a wide variety of lizards, snakes and turtles. They will not refuse to eat a toad or a frog. Corsac foxes are excellent at catching rodents (their favorite foods are gophers, jerboas, voles), hares and birds. Sometimes this predator attacks a baby saiga. This happens extremely rarely: the corsac fox is a rather cowardly animal.

In the mountains, it is difficult for the severe Tibetan fox to obtain food. Finding anything edible on the rocks is already a difficult task. The basis of the diet of a skilled predator is dexterous rodents, pikas. The fox runs after them along the cliffs, driving them into traps, or waits at their shelters. But that's not all the fox eats. The beast catches mountain hares and birds, climbs into nests and destroys them, feasts on insects and reptiles. When a cunning animal finds berries suitable for food, it will eat them with pleasure. The Tibetan fox does not mind eating carrion.

What a fox eats also determines seasonality. For example, during salmon spawning, many predators stop hunting. Dying fish enough for everyone for several months.

Fox sounds

Everyone is interested in the sound foxes make when communicating. If you watch these animals, you will be pleasantly amazed at how rich their supply of signals is. Every fox sound is reserved for special occasions and situations. Different species have their own voice timbre and language.

The common fox is unusually talkative. The mother constantly communicates with her cubs using a kind of loud purring, interested in their well-being. If any fox cub moves too far or gets carried away dangerous occupation, the mother will shout out to the unlucky baby with a loud yelp. Sometimes these cunning animals talk to their friends, snorting slightly. A warning of danger will be a heart-rending short cry, reminiscent of a loud “car”.

They live in families and do not like to communicate with other brothers. In general, these mini predators have a rather nasty character, so the appearance of a stranger in their domain is accompanied by nervous, offended chirping and hissing. With friends, little foxes can howl, whine and bark!

Large foxes that live in harsh conditions, such as corsacs, “talk” in a very low voice. These predators live alone and occasionally exchange growls and guttural sounds.

Fox breeding

Female foxes reach sexual maturity at two years of age. Smaller species - much earlier, by 9-12 months. On average, an animal can have offspring for up to 6-7 years. For males, everything is arranged somewhat differently. They mature by the age of one year. It is young foxes who are especially willing to participate in matchmaking.

The time of mating games is distributed differently for each species of fox, depending on certain factors of the habitat ( weather, enemies, landscape, amount of food). Animals calculate the time so that the babies appear during the warm period, when there is plenty of food. As a rule, foxes breed in the middle or end of winter.

Foxes are very smart animals. If animals see and feel that their future family may be in danger (lack of food, emergencies, epidemic, cold snap), they postpone the breeding period for 2-3 months.

IN biting frosts the foxes begin their beautiful matchmaking ritual. Males sing a long song to attract a bride. Sometimes several suitors start fights for the lady they like, who stands on the sidelines throughout the fight and watches what is happening. Having waited for the winner, the female approaches her hero. A pair of foxes folds up. More for a long time these two will frolic: roll in the snow, play tag, “dance” while standing on their hind legs, playfully bite each other’s ears and jostle merrily. Then the foxes go into one of the holes.

Monogamy is a common trait for many species of these predators. The fox often chooses a partner for life. It is very important for animals to stick together. In a difficult situation, such life saves the family. Corsacs, fennec foxes, Bengal and Indian foxes are loyal to their mates. They take turns hunting and cleaning holes. But the red fox enters into temporary marriages (they last no more than a year and a half).

Pregnancy in these animals lasts 48-60 days, depending on the size of the animal and its habitat. The number of cubs in a litter is directly related to the amount of food. In times of famine the fox does not start big family. Cubs are born one or two at a time. Many brides never find grooms. And in prosperous years, each fox gives birth to from four to sixteen blind, deaf and toothless puppies.

Types of foxes

Foxes are distributed throughout to the globe. The organisms of these animals are ideally adapted to various natural zones. Let's consider the most interesting views foxes

Arctic foxes rightfully bear the title of polar explorers. These snow-white foxes live both in the taiga and far beyond the Arctic Circle. Withstand very low temperatures mischievous animals are capable of this thanks to their thick fur with a dense waterproof undercoat. In such suitable clothes you will not freeze, and you will be well camouflaged in the white snow! Snowshoe paws save the Arctic fox. The beast does not fall through when running in the snow.

Arctic foxes have perfectly adapted to the cold. They easily tolerate frost of -50 degrees. The rounded body shape minimizes heat loss. Scientists have found that the polar fox begins to tremble only when the temperature reaches -70 degrees!

The Arctic fox is a typical predator of the tundra, subarctic and arctic natural areas. In summer, these animals live sedentary, occupying old burrows, and in winter they go wandering. Arctic foxes often accompany polar bears, who share part of the prey with them. During migration, northern animals go far beyond the Arctic Circle. Sometimes the arctic fox travels 4,500 kilometers in a few months! It's amazing that animals easily find their way home.

There are two subspecies of the Arctic fox: white and blue. It all depends on the color of the coat. The fur coat of polar foxes is ideal for camouflage. In winter these animals are white, and in summer they are black or brown.

In places where snow alternates with earth, arctic foxes are found with a spotted color that perfectly camouflages the predator.

Arctic foxes feed on various small rodents (for example, lemmings), fish, birds, eggs, and seal carcasses. Arctic foxes have the most developed hearing and vision compared to other canids. The animal can hear the movement of a lemming under the snow several kilometers away.

Arctic foxes live in families, which include a pair with small cubs and a previous litter.

The polar fox takes root well at home. If you raise them from childhood, their behavior will resemble cats and dogs.

In the dry desert there is a cute mini predator. The fox is considered the tiniest representative of the canids. Its dimensions are no more than 40 centimeters in length (with a tail - up to 80 centimeters).

The hardy animal got its due unusual name from the colloquial Arabic word "fanak", meaning fox. Fennecs live in northern Africa in desert and semi-desert zones. The dwarf fox has adapted perfectly to these conditions. Thick fur grows on the pads of fennec's paws, allowing them to walk calmly on the scorching sand. Large, outstretched ears are not only able to hear the slightest rustle of prey in the sand (small vertebrates and insects), but also increase blood circulation in the body, which allows it to cool down.

They live in families in deep underground burrows that they build themselves. The number of one clan rarely exceeds 10 individuals. Males fiercely defend their territory from strangers.

Tibetan foxes are also medium-sized animals (body size without a tail is 60 centimeters, with a tail – up to 130 centimeters). They live on inaccessible rocks of Tibet and the Himalayas, where they dig holes or find suitable cavities under stones.

Foxes hunt in pairs. Each spouse shares his spoils. Tibetan foxes feed on pikas and other rodents, hares, birds, reptiles, insects and berries.

Tibetan foxes don't mind their neighbors. Many pairs live and hunt in the same territory.

Big-eared foxes live on the southeast coast of Africa in the savannas. They thrive in hot climates. Outwardly, these small animals look just like an ordinary fox, only with very large ears.

When searching for food, predators rely on their keen hearing. Eared fox often accompanies herds of antelope, where he finds scarabs and other tasty insects.

The animals are monogamous, but sometimes form triads (one male and two females). Each family member hunts alone. Animals settle in dug holes and ruined termite mounds.

The red-haired beauty, familiar to everyone, settled throughout Eurasia, North America, Australia and some areas of Africa. Such a wide distribution causes many variations in color and size of the predator. Among the fiery red brothers there is even black Fox(silver fox).

The color variability of these animals is greatly appreciated by people. A fox at home acquires a more saturated shade of fur.

Foxes hunt alone. Their prey includes small and medium-sized rodents, hares, birds, lizards, frogs, snakes, turtles, fish and insects. In winter, food becomes significantly less. The common fox uses all its skills to catch agile rodents under the snow. This method is called "mousing".

Enemies of foxes in the wild

Since ancient times, foxes have been known as cunning and cautious animals. They had such qualities for a reason. Foxes have many enemies from which they need to somehow escape.

Some animals deliberately attack tailed animals. Among the enemies of foxes:

Eagle owls, crows and hawks also attack the cubs of red predators.

Recently, keeping a fox at home as a pet has become possible. Many people were able to fulfill their childhood dream and make an unusual friend.

Taming of cunning animals began in 1959. Enterprising breeders bred different breeds fox However, wild instincts are not so easy to bring out. If you want to have a cute pet fox, you need to be on your guard. Without training, an animal can harm humans, other pets and interior items.

A fox at home is a fairly friendly animal. He will be happy to play with you and other pets. This predator is very easy to train. You can teach him a funny trick.

When choosing exotic pet It is worth considering what lifestyle the animal is accustomed to. For example, the popular ornamental fox, the fennec fox, is active at night. Sometimes such details can make a person's life difficult.

Do not forget that a fox at home needs some care. The animal can sleep in a spacious enclosure or on a large bedding. The animal needs to be brushed and bathed regularly. Foxes should be taken for walks on a leash.

The Canadian marble fox is considered one of the most popular pets. A beautiful black, gray and white fur coat attracts the eye and literally makes you fall in love.

Decorative fox

– a very active and nimble animal. His cute appearance attracts glances: it’s impossible not to fall in love with his big ears and black beady eyes!

The size of the animal is very modest: with a body length of about 40 centimeters, the animal weighs 1.5-2 kilograms. Fennecs are distinguished by their cunning and slightly capricious character, although they get along well with humans and cats. mutual language. They don’t mind playing with their friends (for example, hide and seek or tag).

Ornamental chanterelles are very difficult to tolerate temperature changes (especially cold snaps). Fennecs feel comfortable in well-heated rooms.

Mini foxes need to be combed regularly. Use soft bristle brushes or small fine-toothed combs for this procedure. Fennec himself really likes this type of fur care.

You can use a litter box for desert foxes as a litter box. Fennecs are very smart, so they quickly understand what this item is for.

What to feed a fox at home?

The fox is an exotic pet, so you won’t be able to buy special food in the store. It is worth trying to include in the animal’s food what it eats in wildlife.

These furry cunning creatures adapt well to the new diet, as they are almost omnivores. The basis of a chanterelle's diet should be processed meat (boiled or steamed). The animal’s diet can include fruits, vegetables, berries, insects, raw eggs. It is very important to supplement the animal’s menu with meat by-products: soft cartilage, trachea, bird spleen, offal, liver, beef tripe, heart. Do not feed your chanterelle bones or raw, unpeeled fish - this can lead to digestive problems.

These animals are canines, so if it is not possible to feed them natural food, you can switch to universal dog food. With this option, it is still necessary to occasionally reinforce the predator’s body with vegetables, meat and protein.

How long does a fox live?

The lifespan of foxes is almost the same as that of wild dogs and wolves. Natural conditions in their habitat they are quite harsh, so not all animals manage to reach adulthood.

In nature, how long a fox lives determines the amount of food, the presence of epidemics, and the number of enemies in the territory. In the wild, the animal rarely reaches the age of six. The average lifespan of a predator is 2–5 years. The animal constantly spends energy searching for prey and surviving.

However, a fox at home or in a zoo remains in excellent health for twenty years! Even at a respectful age, these animals remained cheerful and playful.

How long foxes live in captivity is also determined by the fact that any disease can be cured. Wild predators often die from various ailments.

• All foxes are wonderful parents. Unlike many predators, both father and mother are equally involved in raising, protecting and feeding the young. Foxes look after their pregnant wives by biting their fleas, licking them, and bringing food to their shelter. Parents together teach their kids to hunt small prey: lizards, insects, birds.
• The amazing tail of foxes was popularly called a trumpet due to its interesting shape. Many people were touched by how these little predators proudly raised their useful tool. It was from the humorous name that the expression “pipe tail” came from.
• You all probably know about the fearless hero Zorro. Protector of the weak, noble robber whose face is hidden black mask became the idol of many people. Translated from Spanish, “zorro” means “fox”. Perhaps it was precisely for the dexterity and ingenuity of the red predators that this hero received such a name.
• The fox is a frequent guest in the mythologies and folklore of different nations. In Japan, due to its cunning, this animal is considered the personification of confusion and pranks. Sudden downpour in the middle sunny day residents of the eastern country called it “fox rain”. The Japanese often identify strange phenomena with the antics of fluffy tails. Will-o'-the-wisps in swamps are also called "fox lights". It is believed that the beast plays tricks on travelers, trying to scare them.
• Common fox– the owner of a chic tail, the main decoration of which is the bright white tip. And he appears immediately. Newborn puppies, which do not yet have teeth and their eyes are not open, already have a light triangle. There is a legend that once upon a time foxes had completely red tails, and when running they did not rise, but dragged along the ground. Over time, the color on the tip has worn off. The common fox, in order not to spoil its fur coat, began to raise its tail. Now the white tip is inherited by all foxes.

The polar fox occupies homes that have belonged to many generations of animals. The age of such burrows can exceed 150 years, the number of passages can be more than a hundred, and the area of ​​underground labyrinths can be several square kilometers!