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Fox

Found a fox?

Foxes are naturally cautious around people. One that looks thin, is limping, or approaches people closely may need help rather than just be curious.

If an animal is injured, orphaned, or displaced, contact licensed or permitted help before feeding or handling. Share what you are seeing so the animal can reach appropriate wildlife care.

First steps

Start here

Keep people and pets back and give the fox a clear path to leave.

Do not attempt to feed, herd, or corner the animal.

Take photos or video from a safe distance if possible.

Share behavior details, location, and any visible injuries.

Avoid

Do not do these while waiting for guidance

Do not approach or try to touch an adult fox.

Do not feed a fox to try to help it.

Do not assume unusual tameness is a good sign; it can mean illness.

Why this matters

A fox that seems unusually calm around people is often a sign something is wrong, not a friendly encounter. Qualified guidance helps keep everyone safe.

Other situations to know

Does anything else apply here?

These situations can happen with any animal, including this one. Keep them in mind alongside the guidance above.

Injured adult wildlife

Found as an injured adult?

Adult wildlife can injure people when scared, even when they look weak. The best first step is distance, safety, photos, and a call to qualified help.

Do not attempt to capture adult wildlife unless instructed by a qualified person.

Do not grab, corner, chase, or throw a towel over it without guidance.

Take photos or video from a safe distance and share location, species, and visible injuries.

Vehicle strike

Hit by a vehicle?

Vehicle strikes can involve hidden injuries, traffic danger, and babies nearby. Stay safe first, then share exact location and visible details.

Do not step into traffic or block a roadway to reach the animal.

Call local emergency services or animal control when people or traffic are at risk.

Note the exact road, nearest cross street, and direction of travel.

Tree work or nest disturbed

Did tree work disturb a nest or den?

Tree trimming, removals, landscaping, and storm cleanup can expose nests or dens. Pausing work and getting guidance can prevent avoidable harm.

Stop work in the immediate area if it is safe to do so.

Keep equipment, pets, and foot traffic away from the babies or nest area.

Do not relocate babies to a random tree, box, or yard without guidance.