Foxes are present in Washington State, inhabiting diverse environments from natural landscapes to human-influenced areas. Understanding their species and behaviors helps appreciate their role in the state’s ecosystems.
Fox Species Found in Washington
Washington State is home to two primary fox species: the Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes) and the Gray Fox (Urocyon cinereoargenteus). The Red Fox is recognizable by its reddish-orange fur, black legs, and a white-tipped tail. While typically reddish, other color phases like golden, silver, or black can occur. Red Foxes generally weigh 10 to 15 pounds and measure 20-25 inches in body length.
The Gray Fox has a grizzled salt-and-pepper gray coat, with reddish-brown patches on its sides, chest, and head. Its long, bushy tail features a black stripe ending in a black tip. Gray Foxes are typically smaller than Red Foxes, weighing 6 to 15 pounds. A unique characteristic is their ability to climb trees, uncommon among other canids.
Within the Red Fox species, the Cascade Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes cascadensis) is a unique subspecies endemic to Washington’s Cascade Mountain Range. Adapted to high-elevation, subalpine habitats, it is considered critically imperiled. Unlike lowland Red Foxes, this subspecies is native to Washington and possesses a distinct genetic makeup.
Habitats and Distribution Across Washington
Foxes in Washington State occupy diverse habitats, from dense forests to open fields and urban environments. The Red Fox thrives in woodland edges, open fields, meadows, and lawns. While found throughout the state, indigenous populations are primarily in the central and eastern Cascades, favoring drier mid-elevation forests and subalpine areas. Introduced Red Fox populations are present in other parts of the state, often in lower elevations, farmlands, and developed areas.
The Gray Fox prefers forested and brushy areas, often found in drier pinyon/juniper habitats. Unlike Red Foxes, Gray Foxes are known for their tree-climbing ability, which allows them to utilize hollow trees or brush piles for dens and to escape predators. They favor woodlands and brushy terrain, generally avoiding intensely cultivated farmlands or open grasslands.
The Cascade Red Fox subspecies is restricted to the upper mountain forests, subalpine parklands, and alpine meadows of the Cascade Range, typically at elevations between 4,500 to 7,000 feet. These small, isolated populations are primarily concentrated in the southern Cascades. They tend to avoid the dense, wet forests of the western slopes, preferring the open, drier montane forests on the east side of the crest.
Fox Behavior and Living Alongside Humans
Foxes are opportunistic omnivores, with their diet largely consisting of small mammals like mice, voles, and rabbits. They also consume bird eggs, insects, and native fruits. In human-modified environments, they may scavenge for pet food, garbage, or poultry. Both Red and Gray Foxes are generally most active during dawn and dusk, though they can be observed at any time. While typically solitary outside the breeding season, mated pairs and their young reside together as a family unit.
Coexisting with foxes in human-populated areas is possible, as they are naturally wary of people. Foxes are not usually considered dangerous to humans unless they are rabid or feel threatened. To prevent conflicts, securing trash cans with tight-fitting lids and avoiding leaving pet food outdoors are important steps, as these can attract foxes seeking easy meals. Small pets, especially cats or small dogs, should be kept indoors at night to prevent unwanted interactions.
If a fox is sighted in a residential area, maintaining a safe distance is advised. If a fox does not retreat, making loud noises, such as clapping or shouting, can encourage it to leave. It is important to avoid feeding foxes, as this can lead to them becoming less fearful of humans and potentially dependent on artificial food sources. If a fox has denned under a porch or in a yard, they typically move their pups by late June, and harassment techniques like making noise or placing strong-smelling items near the den can encourage them to relocate.