Animal Fact Sheet
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Fennec Fox
Vulpes zerda
What does it look
like?
Fennec foxes are among the most attractive desert mammals. Their
most outstanding features are enormous ears, which are up to six
inches long. Their ears have the dual purpose of helping track prey
while remaining alert to enemies, as well as acting as a radiator
to rid their small bodies of excess heat.
- These small canines are only 14 to 16 inches longs, and weigh
approximately 3 pounds
- Their fur varies from reddish cream to pale fawn with long,
bushy, white or black-tipped tails about 7 inches long
- Fennec foxes are primarily nocturnal whose large, dark eyes
provide good night vision
- They have thick hair between their toe pads to move quickly
and quietly across sandy surfaces
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| Where
in the world?
Fennec foxes live in arid regions of North Africa, the Sinai and
Arabian Peninsulas. Primarily found in sandy areas, they usually
live in burrows lined with a collection of soft materials such as
feathers and bits of fur. The fennec fox is similar in appearance
and life-style to the North American kit fox.
What are some behaviors?
Fennec foxes can dig with great speed, and when pursued, seem almost
to dive into the sand. When threatened, they can leap nearly four
times their body length from a standing position.
Although most fennecs species are solitary, fennecs
are more social, often living in small groups of up to 10 in burrows.
They scent-mark territories with urine.
What about offspring?
Breeding once a year in January or February, males and females may
pair for several breeding seasons. Litters of two to five are born
in March or April. Both parents defend the burrow site, but only
the female may enter. |
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What does it eat?
Fennec foxes eat various foods including dates and plant materials,
jerboas and other small rodents, birds, eggs, lizards and insects
such as migrating locusts. Like the kit fox, they catch rodents
with a mouse-like leap, springing off the ground and landing with
front feet on the prey. Fennec foxes will drink water when it is
available, but can survive for long periods on moisture obtained
from their food. Digging for plant roots is one important source
of moisture.
Is it threatened
or endangered?
Although not listed as an endangered species, fennec foxes are considered
rare in some areas of the northwestern Sahara where they have been
hunted extensively and taken from the wild for the pet trade. |
