Gray fox hunting in my backyard
North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission biologists are urging city folks and urban dwellers to not panic over seeing foxes during daylight hours.
Simply seeing a fox is not a cause for alarm. Catching a glimpse of one can actually be a rewarding experience in that it provides an opportunity to witness one of North Carolina’s most adaptable species. However, people still should not approach foxes or fox dens, even if they seem harmless. If the fox makes a den for pups, do not disturb them. Do not approach, touch or feed the fox or its pups.
Foxes are really a benefit in helping to control other pests, I had voles in the yard but between the hawks and the foxes they are gone. The important thing with any wildlife is to not allow them get habituated to people.
Here are some Tips from NCWRC
* Don’t feed wild animals – they can lose their fear of people.
* Make sure you are not indirectly feeding wildlife – by cleaning up pet food, securing trash in an animal-proof container, keeping barbecue grills clean and removing bird feeders.
* Establish protective barriers to keep wildlife from entering basements, crawl spaces, attics and beneath decks, where they might build nests or dens.
* Secure pets or keep them indoors. Dogs can disturb dens, prompting aggressive behavior from the foxes.
* Clear overhanging tree limbs or other means of access that wildlife can use to enter a structure.
* Clear fallen fruit from around trees.
* Encourage neighbors to follow these same methods.
Of course if the animal is acting odd or appears ill contact your local animal control.
For more info on Gray Fox or info on Red Fox
