New Mexico’s diverse landscape, ranging from high-altitude mountains to arid desert basins, provides suitable habitat for multiple fox species. These adaptable canids navigate the state’s varied geography, finding niches in environments from dense pinyon-juniper woodlands to wide-open grasslands. Since they are often nocturnal, sightings can be infrequent, but foxes are a consistent component of New Mexico’s wildlife population. The type of fox encountered depends on the specific ecological region of the state.
The Primary Species of New Mexico
The two species most commonly inhabiting the state are the Gray Fox (Urocyon cinereoargenteus) and the Kit Fox (Vulpes macrotis). Distinguishing them involves observing physical traits, particularly size and fur coloration. The Gray Fox is a medium-sized canid, typically weighing between 8 and 15 pounds and measuring up to 44 inches in total length. Its coat is grizzled gray on the back and face, with rust-red patches along the legs, neck, and sides. A distinguishing feature is its long, bushy tail, which has a distinct black stripe running down the top and ends in a black tip.
The Kit Fox is the smallest fox species in North America, weighing only about five to seven pounds. It possesses exceptionally large ears, which help dissipate heat in its arid environment. Its fur is pale, ranging from grayish-yellow to light tan, providing camouflage in the desert. Unlike the Gray Fox, the Kit Fox has a black-tipped tail but lacks the prominent median black stripe. The Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes) is also present, particularly in the northern and central parts of the state, often exhibiting a rusty-red coat with a characteristic white tip on its bushy tail.
Distribution and Unique Habitats
New Mexico’s variation in altitude and climate dictates where each fox species is predominantly found. The Gray Fox is highly adaptable and can be found across the state, preferring rugged, wooded, and brushy terrain. This species thrives in the pinyon-juniper woodlands and forested areas of the central and southwestern mountains, including rocky canyons and ridges. The Gray Fox is also the only member of the dog family capable of climbing trees, which it uses to escape predators or seek shelter.
The Kit Fox thrives in the state’s arid and semi-arid regions. They are predominantly found in open desert scrublands, grasslands, and areas with loose, loamy soil, which is ideal for digging their dens. Kit Foxes are most common in the southern and western portions of New Mexico, including the Chihuahuan Desert areas. A fourth species, the Swift Fox (Vulpes velox), occupies the shortgrass prairies and open plains of eastern and southeastern New Mexico.
Coexisting with Foxes
Foxes are naturally wary and primarily active around dawn and dusk, making human encounters relatively rare. Since they are opportunistic foragers, minimizing conflict requires removing accessible food sources near homes. This involves securing all garbage containers with tight-fitting lids and immediately cleaning up fallen fruit. Pet food and water bowls should never be left outside, especially overnight, as this attracts foxes and other wildlife.
The small size of foxes means they may view small, unattended pets as potential prey. Homeowners should ensure small dogs and cats are kept indoors or secured in a fully enclosed area, especially after sunset. Foxes are a known carrier of the rabies virus in New Mexico, particularly in the southwestern counties. Any fox exhibiting abnormal behavior, such as a lack of fear of humans or stumbling, should be reported to the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish. If a bite or scratch occurs, immediately wash the wound with soap and water and contact the New Mexico Department of Health.