So Precious

Female red fox, Location of Photo's Taken: Prince Edward Island, Canada Scientific Name: Vulpes vulpes Conservation Status: Threatened The largest... more

by Tracy Bell

Title

So Precious

Artist

Tracy Bell

Medium

Photograph

Description

Female red fox, Location of Photo's Taken: Prince Edward Island, Canada Scientific Name: Vulpes vulpes Conservation Status: Threatened The largest of all vulpine foxes, the red fox is the most successful, and is certainly the most recognizable. A small, dog like animal, its adult mass can vary between 3-14 kg. European foxes and those living in higher latitudes tend towards the larger sizes, while those in North America and southern latitudes are generally smaller. The males average ten to fifteen percent heavier than the females, although the considerable size differences between individuals in this species makes it difficult to use this as a guideline to determining sex. Body length typically varies between 82 and 110cm, of which a prominent bushy tail accounts for about a third. It is useful as a counterbalance while running and jumping, provides insulation and warmth in cold weather, and is used to communicate with other foxes. A white tail tip, or "tag" is a useful field mark for distinguishing a red fox from other canids. Other characteristic features include its narrow, elongated muzzle, erect triangular ears, and luxurious coat of fur.

Uploaded

February 23rd, 2017