Spring has arrived, bringing in longer days, warmer air, and a noticeable increase in wildlife activity. As nature reawakens, people are far more likely to encounter animals in their neighborhoods, parks, and roadways.
One animal seen frequently in yards is the red fox, which is found throughout New York. Red foxes give birth in March and April, and the young kits remain in or near the den for the first three months. As it turns out, raising kits is hard work! Both parents work around the clock to provide enough food for their young, so it’s not unusual to see foxes out in daylight hours this time of year. Red foxes typically move dens every couple of weeks, but they occasionally can set up shop in inconvenient locations, such as under someone’s porch.
If a den is near your home, remember that foxes are temporary residents. Foxes generally pose minimal risk, but can be encouraged to relocate. Here are some immediate actions and tips:
Do not feed them. Avoid leaving out pet food and secure trash cans and compost bins.
Use noise and light as deterrents. Place a radio or install motion-activated lights or sprinklers near your home.
Know when to call a professional:
Anyone who encounters a wild animal that is injured or obviously orphaned should call a trained and DEC-licensed wildlife rehabilitator. Licensed wildlife rehabilitators are the only people legally allowed to receive and treat distressed wildlife, and have the experience, expertise, and facilities to successfully treat and release wild animals.
If you consider wildlife in your yard to be a nuisance, you can hire a Nuisance Wildlife Control Operator (NWCO). NWCO’s are private business owners licensed by DEC to handle and remove wildlife issues in and around your home.
Anyone who observes wildlife that appears to be behaving abnormally should contact their closest DEC regional wildlife office or an Environmental Conservation Officer.
