Size and Weight:
* Red Fox: Larger, with a body length of 45-90 cm and a weight of 3-10 kg.
* Island Fox: Much smaller, with a body length of 35-50 cm and a weight of 1.5-3.5 kg.
Appearance:
* Red Fox: Distinctive reddish-brown fur with a white-tipped tail, black "socks" on the legs, and a white muzzle.
* Island Fox: Six subspecies with varied fur colors including black, brown, gray, and even reddish. They generally have shorter legs and a bushier tail than red foxes.
Distribution:
* Red Fox: Found throughout the Northern Hemisphere, including North America, Europe, and Asia.
* Island Fox: Endemic to the Channel Islands off the coast of California.
Diet:
* Red Fox: Opportunistic omnivore, eating a wide variety of prey including rodents, rabbits, birds, insects, and fruits.
* Island Fox: Mostly insectivorous, but will also eat lizards, small birds, and carrion. Their diet is closely tied to the island ecosystem.
Behavior:
* Red Fox: Generally solitary, but can be seen in pairs during breeding season. Known for their cunning and intelligence.
* Island Fox: More social than red foxes, often seen in groups of up to six individuals.
Conservation Status:
* Red Fox: Least Concern.
* Island Fox: Endangered (all subspecies). Island foxes have faced threats from introduced species, including feral cats and golden eagles.
Other Key Differences:
* Island foxes have shorter snouts and smaller ears than red foxes.
* Island foxes lack a strong scent gland, which is common in red foxes.
* Island foxes have a different vocalization than red foxes, often described as a high-pitched bark or yelp.
Overall, island foxes are smaller, more social, and have adapted to a more limited island environment than their mainland red fox cousins. Their conservation status is of great concern, as they are vulnerable to threats from invasive species.