Foxes produce a diverse range of vocalizations. Each distinct call serves a specific purpose, from signaling territory to attracting mates or warning others of danger.
Common Fox Calls and Their Meanings
One of the most recognizable is the “scream” or “vixen’s cry,” a loud, eerie, high-pitched wailing sound often mistaken for a human in distress. This scream is primarily associated with the mating season, in winter, when female foxes (vixens) use it to attract males and announce their presence. Male foxes may also emit this sound to warn off competing mates or assert their presence.
Barks are another common fox vocalization, typically short, sharp, and high-pitched. These can serve as communication between individuals, especially during mating season, or to mark territory. Some barks, like the “wow-wow-wow” or “staccato” bark, help maintain long-distance contact within a group or declare territory ownership. A raspy bark can also act as an alert signal or a greeting.
Foxes also produce growls, which are low-pitched, guttural sounds. These generally indicate aggression or fear, used to warn intruders or other animals to back off, particularly when defending territory or food. Whines and whimpers are softer, higher-pitched sounds often used by mother foxes with their kits or by submissive individuals. These can express discontent, a desire for attention, or serve as a greeting.
A unique sound is “gekkering,” a chattering or clicking noise used during aggressive encounters, such as fights or play among foxes. This rapid series of vocalizations can signify dominance disputes or be heard during play-fighting among fox pups. Howls and yelps are occasionally heard, which can be longer calls resembling a mix of a bark and a howl, sometimes used as a distress call or territorial announcement.
Distinguishing Fox Sounds from Other Animals
Identifying fox sounds can be challenging, as some vocalizations, particularly the scream, are often confused with other animals or even human cries. The vixen’s scream, while unsettling, is distinct from a human scream, often described as more raspy and guttural, and typically occurs in a series. Many people have mistakenly called authorities believing they heard a human in distress when it was actually a fox.
Fox barks can resemble those of domestic dogs, but they are generally higher-pitched and sometimes shriller. Their natural barks often have a unique raspy quality. Another common confusion arises between fox sounds and owl hoots or screeches, especially at night when sounds can be distorted.
To differentiate, consider the context: fox screams are most common during the winter mating season. The frequency and intensity of the sound can also be clues; foxes often repeat calls to communicate a message. Listening to recordings of various fox vocalizations can help familiarize one with their specific characteristics, making identification easier.