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| Help! There's a fox outside during the day. What do I do? |
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| Do you observe any of these behaviors? |
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- It is scratching, chewing or licking its skin.
- It has open sores or wounds.
- It has a bare tail, squinty eyes and/or a crusty film over mouth, eyes and nose.
- It moves slowly and often lies in one place for a long period of time.
- It appears thin, ragged and malnourished.
- It walks very slowly with stiff movements of hind legs.
- It is searching for food in daylight and close to humans and does not seem afraid.
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| Fact and Fiction about Foxes with Mange: |
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| It is very common for individuals to believe that if they see a fox near their homes,
looking or acting sick, that it must have rabies. 99% of the time this is not the case.
The animal most likely is suffering from mange; a debilitating condition that causes
severe scratching, open sores and loss of hair. The good news is that it is easily
treatable. |
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| Information to help you understand an animal with mange |
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- A fox with mange is very weak from an inability to hunt for food.
- They are tired and suffering from constant itching and burning sensations.
- Because they must eat they will venture close to homes looking for food. Pet food that
is left outside is a frequent choice.
- The fox will not attack cats, dogs or children. Even under normal circumstances it is
not aggressive. It will react however, if trying to be captured.
- They do not want to take up residence in your area permanently. If treated and allowed
to recover they will move on.
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| What can you do? |
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- Stay calm and remember you are not in an unsafe situation.
- Call the Wildlife Rescue League at 703-440-0800. You will be put into contact with
someone that can give you more information to handle your situation.
- Don’t attempt to capture the animal.
- Provide food and water for the animal - preferably in a safe quiet area.
- If being treated for mange, allow the fox to rest and heal in a place where you can
monitor progress.
- Keep information available for neighbors that have questions or concerns.
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Always use caution and common sense
when dealing with wildlife! |
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