Foxes are adaptable native inhabitants of Tennessee, found across the state in rural, suburban, and even urban areas. Understanding their species and behaviors can help residents better appreciate these animals.
Fox Species in Tennessee
Two primary fox species inhabit Tennessee: the Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes) and the Gray Fox (Urocyon cinereoargenteus). Both are members of the Canidae family but belong to different genera, making them distant cousins. Both species are widespread across the state, though their preferences for specific habitats can differ slightly.
The Red Fox is recognizable by its reddish-orange fur, often with black markings on its legs, ears, and tail. They have an elongated muzzle, pointy ears, and a bushy tail usually tipped with white. Adults weigh between 6 and 15 pounds and measure 36 to 46 inches from nose to tail.
The Gray Fox, in contrast, features salt-and-pepper gray fur, sometimes with reddish fur on the neck, ears, belly, and legs. They have a long, bushy tail with a black tip and may have a black stripe down their back. Gray foxes are slightly smaller than red foxes, weighing 5 to 14 pounds and measuring 35 to 44 inches. A unique characteristic is their ability to climb trees, an unusual trait among canids, utilizing rotating wrists and semi-retractable claws.
Where Foxes Live and Their Habits
Foxes occupy diverse environments in Tennessee. Red foxes often prefer open areas such as fields, meadows, and woodland edges, and are frequently seen in suburban and urban settings. Gray foxes tend to favor more dense cover, including forested and brushy areas, though they can also be found in urban environments where suitable habitat exists. Both species are generally nocturnal, being most active during the early hours of darkness and early morning, though they may move during the day, especially on overcast days.
As omnivores, foxes maintain a diverse diet that varies with seasonal availability. Their primary food sources include small mammals like rabbits and rodents, as well as birds, insects, reptiles, and amphibians. Fruits and berries also form a significant part of their diet. In suburban areas, foxes may opportunistically scavenge for pet food or items from trash cans. Foxes play a role in their ecosystems by helping to control rodent populations.
Coexisting with Foxes
Foxes are generally shy and typically avoid human contact. If a fox is sighted during daylight hours, it does not automatically indicate illness; foxes travel and forage at various times. However, prolonged daytime activity, especially if the animal appears disoriented or aggressive, could be a sign of illness, and should be reported to local wildlife authorities.
To prevent unwanted encounters and potential conflicts, securing food sources is important. This includes ensuring garbage cans have tight-fitting lids and are secured, bringing pet food indoors, and enclosing compost piles. Protecting small pets and livestock, such as chickens, is also advisable, as foxes may prey on them. Fencing can be effective, but it should be designed to prevent burrowing underneath or climbing over.
Foxes can carry diseases like rabies, though confirmed cases in foxes are statistically less frequent than in other wildlife such as bats, skunks, and raccoons in Tennessee. If a bite or scratch from a wild animal occurs, it is important to contact a physician and local health department immediately.
Mild harassment techniques, such as making loud noises or using motion-activated sprinklers, can encourage foxes to leave an area where they are not welcome. If a fox has denned on a property, especially with pups, allowing them to move on naturally is often the best approach, but professional wildlife control services can assist with humane removal if necessary.