Are Red Foxes Dangerous?

Red foxes, or Vulpes vulpes, are part of the Canidae family. They can grow up to 39 inches in length from head to the tip of the tail and about 15 pounds. They are active during the day and night and do not hibernate during the winter. Their territories usually consist of forest land as well as fields and they eat a carnivorous diet of small rodents, birds, eggs, and insects. They will also eat vegetation and fruits on occasion. Red foxes are not domesticated animals and should be treated carefully and with as little human interaction as possible.

  1. Aggression

    • Red foxes are not particularly aggressive animals and will run away from humans more often than not. However, if a person tries to capture or handle them, they may scratch, bite and claw in an attempt to escape. Their teeth are sharp and their jaws strong enough to bite through flesh and small bones of prey, so they can do serious damage if they attack a person.

    Rabies

    • Rabies can be carried and passed on by Red foxes. This is a disease of the central nervous system and is transmitted through saliva. If a rabid fox bites a human it can pass on the disease. Foxes that have rabies are less wary of predators and humans and may even be aggressive enough to attack with little to no provocation. Other signs of the disease include a lack of muscle coordination and paralysis.

    Mange

    • Red foxes can contract Sarcoptic mange, caused by mites burrowing into their skin. This leads to scabbing in some areas, intense itching and even hair loss. Symptoms of more severe cases can include blindness, deafness, difficulty eating and even death. Humans can contract mange from foxes by handling infected the infected animals. It's important to wear protective gear if it's necessary to handle a Red fox, thereby reducing the the chance of contracting mange and other diseases.

    Small Pets

    • While Red foxes are not dangerous to humans, for the most part, they can be dangerous to other animals. Small pets such as cats and tiny dogs may be seen as prey or as interlopers on a fox's territory. It is important to keep all small pets within a securely fenced yard or inside the house if you live in an area that sees Red foxes.