Swift fox
A species of True foxes Scientific name : Vulpes velox Genus : True foxes
Swift fox, A species of True foxes
Scientific name: Vulpes velox
Genus: True foxes
Content
Description General Info
Photo By Drew Avery , used under CC-BY-2.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
The swift fox has a dark, grayish, tan coloration that extends to a yellowish tan color across its sides and legs. The throat, chest, and belly range from pale yellow to white in color. Its tail is black-tipped, and it has black patches on its muzzle. Its ears are noticeably large. It is about 12 inches (30 cm) in height, and 31 inches (79 cm) long, measuring from the head to the tip of the tail, or about the size of a domestic cat. Its weight ranges from around five to seven pounds. Males and females are similar in appearance, although males are slightly larger.
General Info
Lifespan
3-6 years
Diet
Swift fox's diet mainly consists of small mammals, notably rodents. It also opportunistically consumes birds, insects, and vegetation, preferring the plains pocket mouse when available.
Appearance
Swift fox is a small carnivorous mammal with a streamlined body and slender legs. It has soft, dense fur that primarily displays tawny-yellow shades, with darker coloring on the back and lighter undersides. Distinctive dark patches frame its large, pointed ears and slightly upturned snout. Its bushy tail, often with a black tip, is notable. Both genders and all ages appear similar, with little visual variation.
Behavior
Swift fox is a nocturnal, solitary animal. Notably, it is known for its swift speed during hunting. It digs dens for shelter and to escape predators. Marking territory with scent, it is highly defensive, displaying aggression when threatened. Adapted to semi-arid environments, swift fox survives by conserving water from its prey.
Population
Stable
Photo By Drew Avery , used under CC-BY-2.0 /Cropped and compressed from original