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Because the gray fox (Urocyon cinereoargenteus) frequently
has quite a lot of red hair, it may be confused with the
red
fox, and is sometimes referred to as a "red-sided gray".
The adult gray fox may weigh from 7 to 13 pounds and measure up
to 40 inches including a 12 inch tail. The female is slightly smaller
than the male. The hair along the middle of the back and tail is tipped
in black and has the appearance of a black mane. The face, sides, back,
and tail are gray, while the under parts are white and the sides of the
neck and underside of the tail a rusty-yellow color. The gray fox is
essentially a nocturnal animal, and while seldom recognized, it has
a yapping bark. The gray fox sometimes referred to as the "tree fox"
can scramble-up a tree quickly, and is the only member of the dog family
capable of climbing.
The gray fox is widespread across most of the United States except northern
plains and Rockies. While found throughout Florida, it is much more abundant
in the northern sections. Normally found in wooded areas, as it prefers
to live in more inaccessible cover.
Mating takes place in January, February, or March. An average of three
to five young (pups) are born after a gestation period of about 63 days.
Pups are brownish-black and fully furred, but blind for the first nine
days. They nurse for about two months and stay with their parents until
late summer or fall. Both male and female are devoted parents and provide
food, care, and training to the youngsters. The den site may be hollow
logs, gopher holes or hollow trees.
Mice, rats and rabbits are the mainstays of the gray fox's diet, although
it will consume almost anything edible. All types of small birds, mammals,
reptiles, amphibians, fish, fruits, berries, insects, and some carrion
serve to supplement the diet. The gray fox seldom raids the farmer's hen
house, as it prefers to live in wilder, more dense brushy cover. While
gray fox serve to maintain a balance in the rodent and rabbit populations,
they, in turn, are preyed upon by dogs and bobcats, and young fox may
fall to the owl, hawk, or coyote.
Major factors governing population of gray fox are food and cover. The
foxes, both gray and red, are subject to epizootics of
rabies.
More Information
Wildlife Resources Handbook
info
Fox track information
Mammals of Texas
information
Illinois
Department of Natural Resources info
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