Our community is known for having a large population of foxes. It has been reported that these foxes are stealing people’s newspapers from their lawns and using them to build their nests for the upcoming kit season. How are we going to do our daily crossword?! This post explains some of the reasons behind their behavior, what to look out for, and what these little foxes are up to during the spring season.

Spring is a fascinating time for foxes, as it marks the beginning of their breeding season. During this time, foxes become more active and vocal as they search for mates. Male foxes, known as dog foxes, often travel long distances in search of potential partners, while female foxes, or vixens, emit high-pitched calls to attract mates.

Once a pair forms, they engage in a series of courtship behaviors, which may include grooming each other and engaging in playful chases. Foxes are monogamous during the breeding season, with the male typically staying close to the female to protect her and the den site.

As spring progresses, vixens prepare to give birth to their kits. They meticulously select a suitable den site, often located in a secluded area such as a burrow or a dense thicket, to provide safety and shelter for their young. This might be under your deck or in your backyard! The den is typically lined with soft materials like grass and fur (or newspaper) to keep the kits warm and comfortable.

After a gestation period of about 52 days, vixens give birth to their litters of adorable fox kits. These newborns are incredibly vulnerable and rely entirely on their mother’s care for survival. The vixen diligently nurses and nurtures her offspring, ensuring they stay warm and well-fed in the den.

Throughout the spring season, fox families remain close-knit, with the parents working together to raise and protect their young. As the kits grow and develop, they become more adventurous, venturing outside the den under their mother’s watchful eye to explore their surroundings and learn essential skills for survival.

Overall, spring is a time of renewal and growth for foxes, as they welcome new additions to their families and prepare the next generation to thrive in the wild. Be mindful of our foxes, as they are a part of our community. They do not pose a threat and can actually be a great way to keep rodents out of our neighborhood. I hope this post gave you some insight into our furry neighbors!