Here's why:
* Difficult to count: Fennec foxes live in vast, remote areas of the Sahara Desert, making it incredibly challenging to accurately survey their population.
* No definitive study: While there are ongoing efforts to monitor and conserve the species, no comprehensive, reliable count exists.
* Fluctuating populations: Their numbers naturally fluctuate based on factors like prey availability, weather, and predation.
However, the IUCN Red List classifies the fennec fox as "Least Concern." This means that while their population is not currently threatened with extinction, there are still concerns about potential threats like habitat loss, illegal pet trade, and hunting.
It's important to note that even though they are classified as "Least Concern," continued monitoring and conservation efforts are crucial to ensure the long-term survival of this fascinating species.