Beyond the story
An adaptable neighbour
The red fox, Vulpes vulpes, belongs to the dog family. Its pointed ears, reddish coat and bushy tail make it familiar, but its ability to adapt is just as remarkable.
Where is home?
In England, red foxes live in woods and farmland as well as towns and cities. Gardens, railway edges and other patches of cover can form part of an urban fox’s world. They are often seen around dusk or after dark.
A life in the wild
Foxes are omnivores. Small mammals, birds, insects and fruit can all be part of their diet. Their varied menu helps them use many different habitats. Cubs are born in spring and grow up in a den, often called an earth.
A future worth protecting
Familiar animals need care too. Foxes can be injured on roads or become sick or orphaned. Wildlife rescue and rehabilitation aim to return suitable animals to the wild.
Wildlife facts and further reading:
The Wildlife Trusts · Red fox (opens in a new tab)The Fox Project · Rescue and rehabilitation (opens in a new tab)
