Sweet Slumber
by Deena Stoddard
Title
Sweet Slumber
Artist
Deena Stoddard
Medium
Photograph - Photograph
Description
The red fox is the largest of the true foxes and the most geographically spread member of the Carnivora, being distributed across the entire Northern Hemisphere from the Arctic Circle to North Africa, Central America and Asia. Its range has increased alongside human expansion, having been introduced to Australia, where it is considered harmful to native mammal and bird populations. Because of these factors, it is listed as Least Concern for extinction by the IUCN. Due to its presence in Australia, it is included among the IUCN's list of the "world's 100 worst invasive species". The red fox originated from smaller-sized ancestors from Eurasia during the Middle Villafranchian period, and colonised North America shortly after the Wisconsin glaciation. Among the true foxes, the red fox represents a more progressive form in the direction of carnivory. Apart from its large size, the red fox is distinguished from other fox species by its ability to adapt quickly to new environments and, unlike most of its related species, is not listed as endangered anywhere. Despite its name, the species often produces individuals with abnormal colorings, including albinos and melanists. Forty-five subspecies are currently recognized, which are divided into two categories: the large northern foxes, and the small, primitive southern foxes of Asia and the Middle East. Red foxes are social animals, whose groups are led by a mated pair which monopolises breeding. Subordinates within a group are typically the young of the mated pair, which remain with their parents to assist in caring for new kits. The species primarily feeds on small rodents, though it may also target leporids, game birds, reptiles, invertebrates and young ungulates. Fruit and vegetable matter is also eaten on occasion. Although the red fox tends to displace or even kill smaller predators, it is nonetheless vulnerable to attack from larger predators, such as wolves, coyotes, golden jackals and medium and large-sized felines. The species has a long history of association with humans, having been extensively hunted as a pest and furbearer for centuries, as well as being prominently represented in human folklore and mythology. Because of its widespread distribution and large population, the red fox is one of the most important furbearing animals harvested for the fur trade.
All images © 2011-2020 Deena Stoddard ~ All Rights Reserved
Uploaded
June 19th, 2012
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Viewed 1,052 Times - Last Visitor from Fairfield, CT on 04/24/2024 at 4:36 PM
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Comments (91)
Randy Rosenberger
Deena, this is one awesome contrast of natural beauty at its best. Love the fox being snuggled in by the greenery surrounding it. Lovely image!
Deena Stoddard replied:
Randy!! I am so glad to see your comment! Thank you so much, and I'm so happy our prayers were answered!!
Richard Thomas
A very curious flower in the flower bed! Excellent capture of sleeping foxy, Deena! F&V