Homeowners that live near large bodies of water or forested
areas are familiar with all kinds of nuisance wildlife. From raccoons and opossum,
to bats, squirrels, and even beavers, nuisance wildlife is no surprise for
those who live in areas with numerous trees and natural sources of food and
water. But many people are not sure whether or not Indiana is native to one
particular kind of “nuisance” animal, the fox. The fox is a truly intriguing
mammal that is actually helpful for our surrounding environment, so we Hoosiers
should feel a bit grateful for that fact that, yes, foxes DO live here! The species
of fox found in Indiana are called Red Foxes. Continue reading to learn more
about the Red Fox, and what makes them good and bad for our properties.
The Red Fox
The Red Fox, scientifically named Vulpes Vulpes, is the
largest of all the “true foxes” in the world. They can range anywhere from 10
to 30 pounds, at reach lengths of 18 to 35 inches. As a part of the canid
family, they are primarily carnivores (birds, rabbits, small rodents, etc.), but
will also eat fruits and vegetables when available. Although referred to as “red”,
pups are actually born with brown or gray coats, and do not achieve their
distinctive red hue until a mature age. As crepuscular and nocturnal mammals, they
are very skilled hunters, with a keen sense of smell and acute vision. And they
can adapt quickly to new environments, making them highly distinguishable among
other species of fox.
The Red Fox is also a loner and nomadic, and only pairs
up in the early winter or when raising their young. They are known to not use a
den even in the winter, and only uses a den to mate and raise young. In fact, males
leave the den for good once pups are born. They are cautious animals, but very
clever, which is why they have adopted a reputation of being up to no good. But
this is actually far from the truth, and only stem from old stories and myths.
Here’s the truth about the animal we know as the Red Fox.
Benefits of the Red Fox
Hoosiers can appreciate having a few Red Foxes around because
of the advantages they offer. They play a vital role in our surrounding
eco-system as nightly rodent and insect control. Rats, mice, and other little
pests, including insects, are all taken out by the Red Fox in the dozens, on a
nightly basis. Without this extra rodent and insect control, many areas and
properties would be highly undesirable places to be at certain times of the
day. Aside from managing the insect and rodent populations around us, they also
play an important role in seed dispersal. All of the fruits and vegetables they
eat are spread as they wander around.
So you see, foxes can be beneficial for our surrounding environment,
which is why they should never be trapped, harmed, or killed under any
circumstances unless permitted to by law. But there are ways that the Red Fox
can be a nuisance to our properties, and for this reason, certain precautions
should be taken. Here are some tips to thwart fox activity on your personal
property:
- Do Not Leave Pet Food or Water Bowls Outside
- Take Garbage Out the Morning of Trash Day
- Install Motion Sensor Lighting Outside
- Place a Fence Around the Perimeter of Lawns or Gardens (Note: The Red Fox can vault up to 15 feet!)
- Use Safe Store-Bought Deterrent Powders or Sprays for Property Line
- Call a Wildlife Removal and Control Company for Safe and Humane Fox Exclusion Services
Budget Animal Removal
 |
| Wildlife Control in Indianapolis |
Call Budget Animal Removal at 317-875-3099 for safe and
non-lethal wildlife control for Red foxes and other nuisance animals in Indianapolis.
We are DNR licensed wildlife rescue contractors that have decades of experience
in the animal exclusion industry, and only use safe and humane methods for
animal removal and control. We remove all nuisance wildlife, excluding orphaned
dogs and cats. Call 317-875-3099 for affordable and prompt animal removal services
for fox, raccoon, squirrels, and more in Indianapolis, IN.
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