The California island fox is a small fox that is endemic to 6 of the 8 Channel Islands of California. There are 6 subspecies, each unique to the island it lives on. Island foxes are the smallest known species of fox in the U.S. and the second smallest species of fox, after the diminutive fennec fox. These little critters are also known as the coast fox, the short-tailed fox, the island grey fox, and more.
First the Stats…
Scientific name: Urocyon littoralis
Weight: Up to 4.2 lbs.
Length: Up to 19 inches, plus up to an 11 inch tail
Lifespan: Up to 10 years
Now on to the Facts!
1.) Their prey of choice are small mammals, reptiles, insects, birds, eggs, and fruit.
2.) Golden eagles are their main predators. Death from above!
3.) They are listed as endangered by the IUCN.
4.) Island foxes are typically diurnal (active during the day).
5.) These cute foxes are the only canids endemic (native) to California.
But wait, there’s more on the California island fox!
6.) The California island fox communicates via vocalizations, scent marking, and body language.
7.) The foxes give birth to 1 – 5 kits in a den.
Did you know…?
Like other animals that rely on the earth’s magnetic field for navigation, foxes use the earth’s magnetic field to hunt live prey!
8.) They are weened by 10 months and, at that time, they are on their own.
Now a Short California Island Fox Video!
Also, check out the Critter Science YouTube channel. Videos added frequently!
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