Pine Barrens Snapshot
The Red Fox
wildlife photography | red fox | pine barrens snapshot | research writing | local wildlife photography | North American foxes| wildlife photographer | foxes in nj
This shy creature is an adorable yet majestic addition to the wildlife in New Jersey. It is unknown if foxes are genuinely native to the area or were introduced during colonization. Either way, the fox is here to stay! The combination of being omnivorous and highly adaptive means they can thrive in the ever changing, varied, local landscapes.
Fun Facts about Red Foxes
Cats or Dogs?
Despite being in the Canidae family (which includes dogs, wolves and jackals), foxes have a lot in common with cats! They both are nocturnal, ambush predators. Cats and foxes alike have vertical pupils, sensitive whiskers, spikes tongues, and retractible claws. Additionally, both animals have a quiet and elegant walk.
Good or Bad?
Depending on who you ask red foxes can be seen as a friend or a nuisance. Ecologically, foxes play a big role in pest control by hunting rodents and consequently reducing the spread of ticks that can cause Lyme disease. They are also great at dispersing plants, since they love fruit.
On the other hand, foxes can hunt domestic animals such as cats, rabbits, and chickens. They can also rummage through trash or burrow under structures if the foxes becomes too comfortable with humans. Finally, foxes can contract and spread the rabies virus, although this is very rare.
