At night, foxes often produce a variety of loud and distinct sounds. These nocturnal vocalizations can be surprising, but understanding them helps clarify the nighttime soundscape.
Distinct Fox Vocalizations
Foxes produce a wide array of vocalizations, each serving a specific purpose. One of the most recognized is the “vixen’s scream,” a loud, eerie, drawn-out wailing. Both male and female foxes make this sound, though it is commonly associated with females during mating season. This high-pitched scream can travel several kilometers.
Foxes also communicate through various barks. These can be short, sharp, and high-pitched, used for communication or to mark territory. Gray foxes, for instance, make dog-like barking noises.
Beyond screams and barks, foxes engage in “gekkering,” a chattering sound heard during aggressive encounters. Softer sounds like whines and whimpers are used between a mother fox and her kits or when individuals are submissive. Howls and yelps also occur as distress calls or territorial announcements.
Reasons for Nocturnal Calls
Foxes are primarily nocturnal, so their vocalizations are most frequently heard at night. One reason for their loud nocturnal sounds is to attract a mate during the breeding season. Female foxes, or vixens, emit high-pitched screams to signal readiness to breed, while male foxes may use similar sounds to warn off competitors.
Vocalizations also play a role in territorial defense. Male foxes scream to mark their territory and deter other males. Both male and female foxes may use short, acute screams to signal an area is occupied, especially if young are present. Foxes also use sounds to communicate with family members, locate one another, and issue warning signals. These vocalizations are natural behaviors and not typically signs of aggression or distress towards humans.
Seasonal and Situational Factors
The frequency of fox vocalizations, particularly loud screams, increases during their breeding season. This period typically occurs in late winter and early spring, often peaking in January and February. During these months, sounds carry farther due to less vegetation. Young, newly independent foxes also contribute to increased vocal activity as they establish their own territories.
Foxes thrive in various environments, from woodlands to urban parks. Their adaptability means they are often found living near human populations. Increased activity at dawn and dusk, when foxes transition between rest and hunting, also contributes to more frequent vocalizations.
Coexisting with Urban Foxes
There are practical steps to encourage peaceful coexistence with urban foxes. Foxes are often attracted to urban environments by readily available food sources. Securing trash bins, avoiding leaving pet food outdoors, and cleaning up fallen fruit can reduce their presence. Removing dense vegetation or clutter can also make your property less appealing as a den site.
If fox vocalizations become a concern, making loud noises, such as shouting or clapping, can humanely deter them, as foxes are generally timid. Fencing can also be effective, but it must be at least 6 to 8 feet tall with buried wire mesh to prevent digging. Understanding these noises are natural behaviors helps manage interactions, promoting a balanced environment.