Fennec foxes typically give birth to one litter of pups per year, with between two and five young in a litter. Why Does a Fennec Fox Have Extremely Sharp and Big Ears? This provides them with great camouflage in their environment. Fennec foxes can run up to 20 miles per hour! Due to the fact that Fennec foxes have adapted to be able to hunt at night, their eyesight needs to be really good. Two young Fennec Fox - notice their long long ears. Humans are another predator of the Fennec fox as they often trap these animals for sale in the pet trade, or they are hunted for their gorgeous fur.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'allthingsfoxes_com-narrow-sky-2','ezslot_25',139,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-allthingsfoxes_com-narrow-sky-2-0'); Other predators, like birds of prey or hyenas could catch Fennec foxes if they were to go outside during the day, which is one of the reasons why they remain inside their dens when the sun is up. Still, it is important that if you are not around, your pet can still have toys or other supplemental equipment that can keep it entertained. Identifying a very strange skeleton, Fossils reveal predator's struggle to survive mass extinction, You can't detox your uterusdebunking popular myths about PCOS, How bison have been brought back from the brink in Saskatchewan, A summer guide to Lisbon, from street art to hilltop lookouts, 10 national parks to avoid the summer crowds. racer. It is not uncommon for these dens to have multiple entrances and exits to provide a safe escape in the event of an outside threat. Interestingly, though, you will likely find that your Fennec fox does not need a lot of water. Unlike other foxes, who have been studied in the wild, not much is known about their lives in the desert. We cannot stress enough to make sure that the laws in your state allow you to own a fennec fox before you even think about how much they cost. When you consider the shelter that a Fennec fox has in the wild, you really can only consider the shelter that the animal creates for itself. You can also let your fennec run around in a fenced yard, as long as you have a secure 5- to 6- foot fence. While there are no major threats to the desert-dwelling wild populations, habitat loss still occurs in their native range. Fennec foxes will usually give birth to a litter of between 1 and 4 pups, and at birth, their bodies will be completely covered with fur. Thus, it's not easy to care for a pet fennec fox. Safety in burrows: Humans are an ominouspredatorof the fennec fox, as the animals are trapped in some areas and sold into the pet trade or even hunted for their lush fur. Cookies collect information about your preferences and your devices and are used to make the site work as you expect it to, to understand how you interact with the site, and to show advertisements that are targeted to your interests. When keeping fennec foxes as pets you will need to stay in touch with their needs and health. Practice ecotourism by being an advocate for the environment when youre on vacation. The provision of physical and mental stimulation is going to keep this animal on its toes, and this will also help to keep your exotic pet healthy both mentally and physically. The training process involves taking the fox frequently to the litter box and giving lots of treats when it succeeds in using the box. 3001 Connecticut Ave., NW I have interviewed multiple pet fox owners of different species of foxes and one of the biggest problems with pet foxes is that they cannot be truly potty trained, and in most cases arent suitable for indoors. Fennec foxes are very noisy, and you might be surprised at the wide range of sounds and noises that they are capable of making. They usually weigh between 2 and 3 pounds (0.9 to 1.4 kilograms). 5 unmissable foods that unlock Jordans culinary scene, How to plan the ultimate Silk Road adventure, A pair of fennec fox kits photographed at Saint Louis Zoo in Missouri, Photograph by Joel Sartore, National Geographic Photo Ark, Copyright 1996-2015 National Geographic Society, Copyright 2015-2023 National Geographic Partners, LLC. Medical care is something that a Fennec fox in the wild simply does not receive. Fennec foxes have been known to jump around 2 feet in the air, which is around 6 meters high. Fennec foxes are legally protected in Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia and Egypt. Largediurnalpredators such as birds of prey or hyenas could catch them if the foxes journey outside the burrow, so staying inside during the day is sensible for this little creature. There have been some instances of multiple family groups sharing a complex den. You'll have better odds of your fox growing up to be tame and friendly this way. They have been known to squeal when they are excited about something, and they also make a gutteral sound in the back of their throat during mating season. Finally, the limitation of nearby predators is a huge component that factors on the lifespan of a Fennec fox. Although our family dogs are considered descendants from wolves, they could not be more different. If their stool has too much vegetable matter in it, then you will know to cut back on the amount of vegetables they are getting (they need to digest everything). They are often compared to having personalities that are similar to cats. They'll reach full size between nine to 11 months. #mc_embed_signup{background:#fff;clear:left;font:14px Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif}
. The next thing that will happen is that the female fox will start to look for a suitable maternity den, which will be in a place that is not easily seen. Litters consist of 2-5 kits, after agestation periodof about 50 days. Fennec foxes are highly social and playful, and even adult fennec foxes will engage in play. Simply raising awareness about this species can contribute to its overall protection. ). Its main predators are the Verreaux's eagle-owl, jackals and other large mammals. Shop smart too! You should contact an exotic pet veterinarian to find out exactly what kind of requirements go into keeping your fox healthy. Fennec foxes often create dens within close proximity to each other, but the boundaries will be marked with urine and droppings to make it clear where each family of foxes can reside. The fennec fox isone of the only carnivores that seems to do well in the Sahara desert because of itsability to survivewith very little water. Fennec foxes are small canines that have short legs, a long body, and a bushy tail. Its ears range between 4 inches and 6 inches long and look funny up against its small head. Their nocturnal nature keeps them safe from animal predators. Knowing this, lets take a closer look at some of these factors for giving your Fennec Fox a high-quality and long life. This means that not only will the Fennec fox not have to lose energy on the hunt, but it can rest assured that its next meal is coming and that it will receive all of the caloric intake required to maintain its 1-3lb weight. All of these areas were restricted sandy areas that were close to permanent human settlements. Foxes can live longer in captivity, around 12 to 15 years. Loving and caring for your fennec fox is the top priority for them. Their diets mainly consist of insects, making them insectivores and omnivores, however, they also eat vegetation and small rodents. You can also use it as a journal to record your awesome journey as a pet fox owner. Fennec's are excellent groomers, and fastidiously clean: Good news for you, as they do not need to be bathed regularly. But due to predation and food shortage, they only survive the wild for 4 to 6 years. Each of the families will have its own territory, and the foxes will mark the boundary of their territory with both urine and droppings. Please don't expect to be able to walk your fennec the way you'd walk your dog. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[320,50],'allthingsfoxes_com-box-4','ezslot_5',124,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-allthingsfoxes_com-box-4-0');if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[320,50],'allthingsfoxes_com-box-4','ezslot_6',124,'0','1'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-allthingsfoxes_com-box-4-0_1');.box-4-multi-124{border:none!important;display:block!important;float:none!important;line-height:0;margin-bottom:7px!important;margin-left:auto!important;margin-right:auto!important;margin-top:7px!important;max-width:100%!important;min-height:50px;padding:0;text-align:center!important}. Contrarily, in captivity, most Fennec foxes are not in colonies of these numbers- at least not in your home- and even if they are, the rescuers or caretakers are providing adequate nutrition for each animal leaving little need for food competition among the group. In the wild foxes have very short life spans, 1-2 years. By Joanna Modified date: June 11, 2020 0 Fennec foxes are known for their gigantic ears and cute snub noses. The sounds that they hear will often belong to different creatures, like insects, rodents, lizards, and anything else that will make for a suitable dinner. Now more than ever, we need your support. When you visit the site, Dotdash Meredith and its partners may store or retrieve information on your browser, mostly in the form of cookies. Their kidneys have also adapted to restrict water loss, and the thick fur on the soles of their feet will protect them from hot sand and give them better traction on the loose sand. Female Fennec foxes can also become quite aggressive when it comes to protecting their young. However, in captivity, foxes have been known to live much longer. Consequently, you will find that your pet demonstrates better behavior when its mental and physical stimulation needs are adequately quenched. However, a fox will not turn its nose up at water if it is presented to them, and they will still drink any water that is available. A bearded dragon is an agamid lizard, Read More What Is a Bearded Dragon?Continue, Contents It is a known fact that many small animals make a lot of noise at night, especially when they are nocturnal. Fortunately, many fennecs will adapt to their human's schedule, rather than remaining nocturnal. Although they can be kept in a room. Eagles are a bird of prey that is great at hunting, and they usually eat things like fish and other smaller birds. The most common causes for the short life span of foxes are lack of food, weather conditions, and predators. It also works to protect their paws from the cold during the night. This is simply unheard of in the wild. Fennec fox families will dig out burrows in the sand for habitation and protection, and these dens that they create can be as big as 120 m2 (1,292 sq ft). There are some other costs that come with keeping any pets, such as toys, leashes, and other pet items. Are There Wolves In Kentucky (What Types), Weight (are they losing or gaining weight), The Fennec fox is the smallest type of fox, but they have very big ears in comparison to the rest of their bodies, Fennec foxes are cream in color and their tails have black tips on the ends of them, Fennec foxes are omnivores, and their diet consists mainly of things like insects, snails, lizards, rodents, birds, eggs, and plant matter, They reach the age of secual maturity at around 9 months old, and they will begin to reproduce after this point in their lives, Fennec foxes can purr like a cat when they are happy, They are highly social animals that can live in families of up to 10 other foxes, Fennec foxes will shiver if the temperature drops below 68 degrees Fahrenheit, Even though they are nocturnal, they do occasionally like to sit in the sun. Exotic pets are expensive, and they often need special care and attention. They also can develop skin infections and mites, as well as intestinal parasites. The laws surrounding owning a Fennec fox will vary depending on the jurisdiction, but most parts of the United States forbid owning Fennec foxes as pets altogether. It is unlikely for an eagle to go for a fully grown Fennec fox due to their bigger size and extra weight, but they will happily fly off with a pup or a young fox. No, Fennec foxes are not carnivores, as they do not exclusively eat meat. All rights reserved. In addition, the majority of pet fennecs will allow people they know to pick them up, but most dont seem to enjoy handling overall. In Northern Africa, they are in danger of being trapped or hunted and sold commercially. Females stay with the kits until they are weaned, after 60 to70 days; and males venture to hunt for food for the family. It can roam about freely (as long as it keeps its eyes and ears open for predators). These desert foxes live up to 11 years in captivity. Corgis are beloved for many reasons, but are they aggressive? In addition, breeders should be licensed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. However, they do sometimes go for other animals, like Fennec foxes, and they will occasionally break up their prey and take it back to their nest. They have a thick, sandy-colored coat that keeps them warm at night and reflects the sunlight during the day. There are several components that are going to help a Fennec fox to survive, and there are more that are going to go into giving this exotic animal a high-quality life. The tail length can go up to 12 inches. These pint-sized canids are extremely adaptable in their native desert environment. Insects are tastyenrichmentitems. The average lifespan of a fennec fox in captivity is 12-14 years. In the wild, fennec foxes are omnivores that eat a varied diet of meat and plants, including rodents, birds, insects, and fruit. Another thing to consider is where this Fennec fox is coming from. Fennec foxes behave a bit like active, playful little dogs. Fennec foxes are often trapped and poached by hunters in North Africa, and they are also sold to the local fur trade and international pet trade. These foxes are also able to growl, but it is more like a low trill, and they can make high-pitched squealing noises, just like when you squeeze a dog toy.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'allthingsfoxes_com-mobile-leaderboard-1','ezslot_22',134,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-allthingsfoxes_com-mobile-leaderboard-1-0'); Fennec foxes are very expressive when it comes to making noises, and they can make lots of different sounds. They are prone to kidney, liver, and heart disease, especially if their diet is poor. However, they are suffering from habitat loss, and they are often hunted, which makes them rare in certain parts of the Sahara. Can Conures Eat Flour Tortillas? Their fur is able to provide them with excellent camouflage to help them blend into their surroundings, and they also have excellent hearing. Fennec foxes are known for living in warmer climates, which is why they typically have their babies in the spring, which is just after the winter months. The main predators for the Fennec fox to watch out for are the Verreauxs eagle-owl, jackals, and other large mammals. It is also illegal in many places, which is something else that you should carefully consider. Thehome rangeof these foxes is widespread throughout the deserts of the Sahara and throughout North Africa. Their heat-reflecting coat also provides excellentcamouflagein their surroundings. Size aside, these foxes hold a large space in my heart. These foxes are able to live for years without drinking water if they are able to rely on desert plants instead. Are Foxes Dangerous (To Pets And Humans): Ultimate Guide. Create a free account to continue and get unlimited access to hundreds of Nat Geo articles, plus newsletters. Fennec foxes are absolutely beautiful and it is easy to be mesmerized by them. If not, you may find that your pet becomes incredibly unhappy and lets out a loud shrieking or barking sound. Vets recommend wire brushes, the kind used for cats. The fennec fox, also known as the desert fox, is a petite animal that's native to the Sahara desert and other parts of North Africa. Serval Cat: Breed Profile, Characteristics & Care. Although it's not common, sometimes these tiny foxes with oversized ears are kept as pets. Even the fox's feet are hairy, which helps them perform like snowshoes and protects them from extremely hot sand. You can line the floor with old newspaper, making it easy to clean and replace. In the wild, a Fennec fox would never be limited in terms of physical stimulation. Fennec foxes will eat insects in the wild, including things like grasshoppers and locusts, but they will also eat other things like small rodents, lizards, birds, and eggs. While it is true that a Fennec foxs lifespan is expected to be greater when in captivity, there are many components that come into effect in terms of the quality of care you provide having a direct effect on the quality of life and longevity of your Fennec fox. Instead, the Fennec fox derives much (if not all) of its hydration from the fruits and vegetation that it consumes. Your vet should be able to recommend the correct course of vaccines. Fennec foxes live in deserts and semi-desert habitats. (How To Stop? They emerge from their dens at dusk to begin the search for food. Go from roaches to more worms or vise versa. However, if they were to accidentally cross paths, then the fox could be at risk. The smallest of all canids, fennec foxes are 14 to 16 inches (35.6 to 40.6 centimeters) long, with an additional 7 to 12 inches (18 to 30 centimeters) of tail. If you live in an appropriate climate, an outdoor enclosure that's as large as possible is ideal to give your fennec some exercise. One of the major reasons that a Fennec fox can survive for longer in captivity than in the wild is that it has food readily available to it. How Long Do Foxes Live? They grow to be only around 2-3 pounds. These animals make a variety of vocalizations to express their moods, and some can be very loud. Please be respectful of copyright. Obsessed with small pets. 7 Kinds of Primates That Are Kept as Pets. This amount can vary depending on how much their food sources cost in your area. You should always check the laws and regulations that are in place where you live. Furthermore, some fennecs can be trained to use a litter box indoors. Along with this, Fennec foxes will receive mental stimulation in the wild as they hunt down their prey and communicate (and play) with other Fennec foxes in their colony. Young are born fully furred but blind; their eyes open after eight to 11 days, and they are able to walk at about 2 weeks. However, in captivity, you will need to ensure that you are playing with your pet. It is vital that you acquire your fennec from a reputable breeder or rescue organization. Avoid buying products made from animals, which could support poaching and the illegal wildlife trade. Fennec foxes live up to 14 years in captivity (ownership and proper care of humans), yet their life expectancy decreases in the wild coming in at an expected 10 years. A healthy fox will typically be alert and active, though it might be shy around you at first. Increased access to consistent shelter helps to increase the life of a Fennec fox. As desert animals, fennecs require temperatures of at least 68 degrees Fahrenheit. Because of medical care, from minor to major interventions, a Fennec foxs lifespan is greatly increased. How Long Can Fennec Foxes Go Without Water? Even more, this animal will have the ability to maintain its own environment and become less of a natural prey (considering its small size) as it resides in an enclosure. While most would rather choose flight over fight, they will bite if something truly angers them. In fact, relative to body size, it has the largest ears of any member of the canid family. ADULT SIZE: 9 to 16 inches long, weighing 1.5 to 3.5 pounds. In the wild, this animal is living in the desert, so relying on water has been eliminated from a survival requirement. Most foxes are solitary, but this is not the case for Fennec foxes, who will form groups of around 10 members. The fox pups will stay with the family, and they can live for up to 10 years. At this point in time, a pregnant fox with red colorings underbelly would turn red instead of the usual white coloring. Catch an up-close look at the Zoo 13-year-old female fennec fox, Daisy, in this special encounter: They are not very picky eaters, and they will even consume things like roots, fruits, and leaves, and these are all also great sources of water. And, with Fennec foxes being so irresistibly cute, you will want to keep your pet around for as long as possible- made much more realistic through access to proper care. If you were to approach a Fennec fox in the wild, you probably wouldnt get a very friendly response. You will need to either angle the fencing in at the top, or cover the whole enclosure with screening. Theyre certainly not a good fit for someone who prefers a quiet pet. Animals Network Team Fennec foxes are small mammals native to the Sahara Desert of North Africa. Their gentle and inquisitive nature have made them popular. The fact that these animals are nocturnal and that they live underground means that they are able to further prevent water loss. We are dedicated to bringing reliable information to the fox community, as well as fun fox shirts, hoodies, stickers, and much more. Fennec foxes are also capable of going for long periods without consuming water; they are able to hydrate through the food they consume. Fennec foxes use many different vocalizations when they are communicating with each other, including whimpers, barks, shrieks, squeaks, growls, howls and chatters. Physically, their large ears have adapted to dissipate any excess body heat when it gets too hot in the desert, and their thick fur helps to keep them insulated during colder nights. They create the burrows themselves, often digging out a series of tunnels that can reach up to 32 feet (10 meters) in length. This makes them difficult to track and be aware of when it comes to statistics. They also need specialized diets in order to provide them with everything that they need, and they need proper care and socialization with other Fennec foxes. Expect to spend a lot of time and effort keeping your fennec exercised. While indoors, your fennec will likely jump on furniture and could potentially knock over decorations and other items as it plays. About the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, Fennec Fox Dies at Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, The Science Behind Giant Panda Veterinary Care. The fennec has a life span of up to 14 years in captivity and about 10 years in the wild. Fennec foxes are typically found in small communities of around 10 foxes in total. They have an ammonia type smell and put out a lot of odors when kept inside or brought inside for any long period of time. Their nocturnal habits help them deal with the searing heat of the desert environment, and some physical adaptations help as well. The number of Fennec foxes in the world is not actually known as they are difficult to keep records on. Two fennec foxes live at Small Mammal House, a female named Daisy and a male named Barkley. Plus, it's best to check out the animal and the seller in person before committing. This means that if you are planning on bringing a Fennec fox into your home, it is highly expected that you will have the means to provide these types of accommodations to help your pet to receive what it needs not only to survive but to thrive. They have a thick, sandy-colored coat that keeps them warm at night and reflects the sunlight during the day. Fennec foxes aremonogamousand mate for life. If you're interested in similar pets, check out: Otherwise, check out other exotic animalsthat can be your new pet. Fennec foxes do make their dens beneath stable sand dunes, and they will dig a burrow to sleep in during the heat of the day. Still, you can (and should) provide a small bowl of water just in case your exotic pet is not receiving enough hydration from the food itself. While unquestionably cute, fennec foxes are indeed noisy, energetic creatures. What Behavioral Adaptations Do Fennec Foxes Have? A Coyote will kill and eat a fox if it ensures their survival. But, if you have small children or pets in your home, the excitement can soon turn to fear as you How Smart Are Wolves (More Intelligent Than Dogs?). It can be especially difficult to manage their high energy level during the hours when most people are sleeping. The smallest of all canids, fennec foxes sport extraordinarily large ears that help them hunt at night. Another great source of water for Fennec foxes is desert plants, and this is a great source of water for many desert animals. What are the Fennec Foxes Predators? To ensure a high-quality life and a longer lifespan for your Fennec fox, you need to ensure proper care for your exotic pet. Hunting and poaching of Fennec foxes also has a devastating impact on their species and populations, and the fur trade has the same effect. Fennec foxes can in some cases be trained to use a litter box, but I wouldnt expect them to use it every single time. They have been able to adapt well to life in the desert, and they have the largest ears that are relative to their own body size than any other member of the canid family. In the wild, tiny (1-3lb) Fennec foxes are apt at dodging predators, yet this does not mean that it always occurs. Due to the fact that foxes have short gestation periods, the female will only be pregnant for around 2 months. This means that it is never a good idea to keep them as pets. When it comes to nature, there are lots of different types of enemies, even those that share the same family species. You can simply put the food in a bowl for your fox, or you can hide some in a treat puzzle to give your pet some mental enrichment. Foxes mainly communicate by barking, whimpering, shrieking, woofing, or chattering. Share the story of this animal with others. So, being nocturnal means that they are safe from many predators, and their coat also works to provide a great camouflage when they are in their surroundings. Like other canids, fennec foxes mark their territory by urinating around the perimeter. How Long Can a Fennec Fox Go Without Water? There are many factors that contribute to the lifespan of a Fennec fox, particularly in comparing the longer lifespan (14 years) of a Fennec fox in captivity versus in the wild (10 years). Burrowing can also cause the formation of due, which can be consumed by foxes. Some other canids that could pose a threat to foxes are Jackals, Hyenas, and even wild dogs. All rights reserved, Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. They might enjoy playing with their humans at times, such as an energetic game of fetch. Fennec foxes do hold a protected status in some areas, but there are still many major threats to them. Before you even acquire a fennec fox, you must make sure there is an exotic veterinarian near you who will treat such an animal. Family starter "kit": Breeding season occurs annually in January and February, with females giving birth in March or April. Most people think that they are soft and cuddly and are really chilled out, but this is certainly not the case. Even though these animals are known to live in families (as in the mates and their litters typically stick together), they are still fighting for their lives through survival instincts, so if the food in the area is scarce, then they might not make it. Foxes and eagles happen to share territory, which puts foxes at risk. The litters will contain around 3 to 5 kits. This means Despite their diminutive stature, fennec foxes are surprisingly good at jumping. Most parts of the United States have some regulations regarding fennecsfrom outright bans to simply requiring a permit. Emily has been a proofreader and editor at a variety of online media outlets over the past decade and has reviewed more than 200 articles for The Spruce Pets for factual accuracy. Also, try to secure references from other people who have gotten a fox from that seller to make sure the seller is trustworthy. This sound is called clicketing. If your fox is gaining too much weight to the point where they are getting fat you will know to cut back on their fatty foods. Fennecs generally should be kenneled when you're not able to supervise them simply because they will get into everything. When it comes to their size, one of their most noticeable characteristics is their ears, which can grow between 4 and 6 inches long.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'allthingsfoxes_com-banner-1','ezslot_7',125,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-allthingsfoxes_com-banner-1-0');if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'allthingsfoxes_com-banner-1','ezslot_8',125,'0','1'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-allthingsfoxes_com-banner-1-0_1');.banner-1-multi-125{border:none!important;display:block!important;float:none!important;line-height:0;margin-bottom:7px!important;margin-left:auto!important;margin-right:auto!important;margin-top:7px!important;max-width:100%!important;min-height:250px;padding:0;text-align:center!important}. Fennec foxes are territorial, and mark their terrain with urine and feces. To summarise, we are going to provide you with some of the most interesting facts about Fennec foxes to recap some of the information in this article, and even provide you with some new and interesting information about these animals. (read more), Factors that Contribute to the Lifespan of a Fennec Fox, Food (Limited Search Requirements for Prey). However, its important to remember these are still animals with wild instincts, even if they were bred in captivity. Fennec foxes are known to be aggressive when they need to be, and it is common for males to be aggressive when it comes to their territory, which is why they will mark their territory with urine. It is no coincidence that a Fennec fox that is living in the proper care of a human will experience a greater life expectancy than a Fennec fox in the wild. Sort of. Monogamous animals, fennec foxes can live in family groups of up to ten individuals. They are commonly trapped for exhibition or sale to tourists, and there have been limited instances of human settlements encroaching on fennec populations. Lots of people want to own these animals as pets, but this is not recommended as they are very hyper and they also make a lot of noise. An optimal diet for a pet fennec fox is a commercial wild canid diet, which is what many zoos feed them. They will also consume roots, fruits and leaves, which help them to hydrate. 7.84K subscribers Subscribe 2.6K views 6 years ago The fennecs are probably the cutest of desert animals and some zoologists have even managed to create perfect conditions for them to make them one. Fennec foxes generally live a little longer in captivity than they do in the wild. Fennec fox babies will drink the mothers milk for the first month of their life, and at this point, they do not need to worry about water. The fox's feet are also effective shovels for frequent, Copyright 1996-2015 National Geographic SocietyCopyright 2015-2023 National Geographic Partners, LLC. Perhaps their most notable characteristic is their ears, which can grow to between 4 to 6 inches (10.2 to 15.2 centimeters) in length. In the wild, fennec foxes eat insectsparticularly grasshoppers and locustsas well as small rodents, lizards, birds and their eggs. Fennec foxes are always really energetic and independent, and they are known to be both hyperactive and cautious. This is because mother nature can be very hard on its creatures. However, when looking for a good breed of dog, you want to make sure they are not aggressive. Their ears will also work to dispel body heat to help to keep the fox cool. Laws about owning a fennec fox vary widely depending on the jurisdiction. They will be able to detect even the smallest of sounds and send them to the brain for analysis. While theirlegs may not be long, fennec foxes can run 20 miles per hour. Should You Keep a Patagonian Cavy (Mara) as a Pet? The fennec fox is the smallest of all the world's foxes, but its large ears, measuring 6 inches, appear to be on loan from a bigger relative. Female foxes have 8 teats, and these will hang down once the vixen begins to lactate. Some of my favorites are, hamsters, Bichon Frise puppies, and Cockatiels. After this point, she will also start to show her mammary glands, which are the glands in the breasts that will fill with milk. Once the female fox does become pregnant, she will start to prepare her maternity den, which is where she will give birth to the fox babies. These animals are able to tolerate the higher temperatures and drier conditions, even more so than other species of fox. However, Fennec foxes in captivity, or those in domesticated environments are much more likely to be friendly. link to Are Foxes Dangerous (To Pets And Humans): Ultimate Guide, link to How Smart Are Wolves (More Intelligent Than Dogs? Unlike wolves, foxes are solitary, so they don't have a . Native populations in the Sahara region also hunt fennec foxes. Fennec foxes shed a good deal from their fluffy undercoat, and therefore need to be brushed regularly. Fennec foxes are opportunistic eaters, and they will forage for things like plants, but they will also eat other things, like rodents, eggs, reptiles, and insects. They have great personalities and are perfect for a wild environment, but are not the easiest of animals to dry and keep as a pet. At 64, Diana Nyad swam from Cuba to Florida. their tiny size fennec foxes can run up to 20 miles per hour! In areas where the soil is more compact, the dens can be bigger and more complex. Wolves are really resourceful creatures, they are cunning and All Things Foxes is passionate about foxes! Some fennecs, especially unneutered males, will also mark their territory with urineincluding the inside of your home. Alternatively, a Fennec fox in captivity will have shelter from harsh weather conditions as well as predators. Vocalizations among these foxes are common, and can manifest as whimpers, barks, shrieks, squeaks, growls, howls or chatters. Also, provide a bowl of clean water at all times. These little guys are the smallest of all the species of foxes. Should You Keep a Russian Red Fox as a Pet? They will typically weigh between 2 and 3 pounds. Fennec foxes are intelligent little beings that don't take to most commands; you won't be teaching yours to sit, stay, or not jump on your furniture. They use their ears to dispel the heat and track down their prey underneath the sand, and they are also the palest of all of the foxes. A brief history of the holiday. Fennec foxes are gorgeous animals that have lots of different interesting features and characteristics that make them unique. Read on to learn about the fennec fox. Their coats are long, soft, and thick and range in color from reddish cream to light fawn to almost white. Pros and Cons of Keeping a Fennec Fox as a Pet. Males can also become quite aggressive when it comes to mating season, which occurs once a year. Most animals are affected by humans in one way or another, due to things like encroachment of human civilization, deforestation, or agriculture and industry. Their sandy fur will also help to reflect heat, and it will provide them with a great camouflage. In this article, we are going to tell you everything that you could possibly want or need to know about Fennec foxes. Their undersides are white, and their tails are bushy and black-tipped.Species: Vulpes zerdaRegions: Africa, Arabia, DesertRegions: Africa, Arabia, DesertEndangered status: Unknown. Mature fennec foxes grow from 9 to 16 inches long, weighing 1.5 to 3.5 pounds. Meet the fennec fox:While it isthe smallest fox in the world, the fennec fox possesses tons of cuteness and charm. Talk with your exotic veterinarian about the best ways for your fennec fox to be trained. This can come in really handy during the night, as the Fennec fox will stop and move its head around to triangulate the almost imperceptible sounds that are made by insects moving around under the sand. They can be found almost exclusively in desert and semi-desert habitats that have sandy soils, and desert grasses and scrub vegetation are commonly found in areas where Fennec foxes live. Even if it is legal where you live, you might want to think about the reasons why they are illegal to keep as pets in other places. Some sellers will ship their foxes to you, but this can be very stressful for the animal. Those ears not only help them listen for prey underground, but also serve to dissipate excess heat of the desert. If that does not work, you will need to consult an exotic pet veterinarian, the same goes for if they are frail and losing weight. SeaWorld allegedly violated the Animal Welfare Act. On the other hand, they may not even understand what the term being clean means with dogs. Fennec foxes are simply known to be very hype as it is in their nature, but sudden movements from anything in their surroundings can put them on high alert. Their undersides are pure white, and their tails are bushy with black tips. 13 Dog Breeds That Look the Most Like Foxes. This is not always the case in the wild, hence why the availability of food plays such a pivotal role in the lifespan of the Fennec fox. Lets take a closer look at some of these factors and how you can incorporate them into helping to lengthen a Fennec foxs lifespan. 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