Foxes are a common sight across Georgia, inhabiting diverse landscapes from dense forests to suburban neighborhoods and urban parks. Their presence is a natural part of Georgia’s ecosystem.
Fox Species Found in Georgia
Georgia is home to two primary fox species: the red fox (Vulpes vulpes) and the gray fox (Urocyon cinereoargenteus). Both are members of the dog family, Canidae, and typically weigh less than 14 pounds. While generally nocturnal, they are often observed during dawn or dusk.
The red fox is identifiable by its distinctive reddish-brown to yellowish-red fur, black “stockings” on its legs, and a long, bushy tail tipped with white. They range from 36 to 45 inches in length and weigh between 8 and 14 pounds. Red foxes are highly adaptable, thriving in open fields, meadows, woodland edges, and are increasingly common in urban and suburban environments.
Conversely, the gray fox exhibits a grizzled gray coat with reddish fur patches on its neck, flanks, legs, and tail underside. A black stripe extends down its back to the tail tip. Slightly smaller, they typically weigh 8 to 12 pounds and measure 34 to 40 inches. Unique among North American canids, gray foxes can climb trees, often seeking refuge or dens in brush piles, hollow trees, or rocky outcrops.
Their Habitats and Diet
Both red and gray foxes are widely distributed across Georgia, adapting to rural, suburban, and urban environments. Red foxes typically prefer open country and woodland edges, where they can find ample food and cover. Gray foxes, however, favor more densely wooded habitats with significant plant cover.
Foxes are opportunistic omnivores; their diet is diverse and depends on what is readily available. Primary food sources include small mammals like mice, voles, rabbits, and squirrels, as well as birds and insects. They also consume fruits such as berries and acorns, and scavenge on carrion.
In residential areas, foxes may prey on domestic fowl like chickens or ducks, and sometimes small pets. They bury excess food for later consumption, a behavior called caching. In the southeastern United States, gray fox populations may face pressure due to competition for food with coyotes.
Coexisting with Foxes
Coexisting with foxes requires understanding their natural behaviors and avoiding attracting them to residential areas. Never feed or approach foxes, as this can lead to them losing their natural wariness of humans. Sighting a fox during the day is generally not a cause for alarm, as they can be active at any time.
To deter foxes, secure trash cans with tight-fitting lids and avoid leaving pet food outdoors. Cleaning up spilled birdseed is advisable, as it attracts rodents, a significant food source for foxes. Sealing off crawl spaces, removing wood piles, and clearing dense brush can eliminate potential denning sites.
Installing sturdy fencing at least 6-8 feet tall, with wire mesh buried a foot deep, can prevent entry. If a fox is on your property, hazing techniques like yelling, banging pots and pans, or using a motion-activated sprinkler can encourage it to leave. Supervise small pets outdoors and keep them in secure enclosures, especially at night, for their safety.
Foxes can carry diseases, including rabies and sarcoptic mange. Rabies is a viral disease transmitted through the bite or saliva of an infected animal, fatal if untreated. Symptoms of a rabid fox include abnormal behavior, lack of coordination, lethargy, or showing no fear of humans. Ensure all domestic pets are current on their rabies vaccinations. If a person or pet is bitten or exposed to a fox’s saliva, immediately clean the wound and seek medical attention.
Sarcoptic mange is a common skin infection caused by parasitic mites, particularly affecting red foxes. Infected animals may exhibit hair loss, flaky or crusty skin, intense itching, and signs of weakness or emaciation. While the mites are not always fatal, secondary bacterial infections can lead to death. If a fox appears sick, injured, or unusually aggressive, contact your local animal control or the Georgia Department of Natural Resources for guidance, as it is illegal to handle or rehabilitate wildlife without a proper permit.