Some Observations on Foxes

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TRANSACTIONS SOME OBSERVATIONS ON FOXES N O R A H BURKE D Ăœ R I N G the summers of 1965/6/7 I had three different fox families under Observation; as a result of which I have two questions to ask of other naturalists who may be able to give the answers.

1965 I never saw the earth itself, for the foxes were lying up on private land where I did not have permission to visit, and where five of them were later shot in a fox-drive. Through binoculars, however, they could be watched sun-bathing in the distance. DĂźring this year, no particular problems presented themselves, but I was able to confirm two facts noted by other observers: (1) that (as with other carnivores and their prey-species) some of the prey-species of foxes show no fear in the presence of foxes when the predators are not hunting, and (2) that foxes, when seen with badgers (Meies meles) seem to take the inferior role. The details are as follows, extracted from my field notes: 2 8 T H J U N E (fine, dry, hot day), vixen and cubs relaxed and at play, in the evening. A small rabbit was feeding within twenty yards of the foxes. It sat up every now and then to look round for danger, went on feeding, and even moved towards the foxes. At the same time a hen pheasant was within fifty to sixty yards and also took no notice of them. Vixen and cubs eventually went away without a second glance at rabbit or bird. Another day I saw a young fox and a cock pheasant Standing side by side within a yard of each other as they stared in my direction. I was nearly half a mile away, using binoculars. The fox finally bounded off.

Here I shall add an entry for 1 2 T H FEBRUARY, 1 9 6 7 , because it concerns pheasants and a fox. On this cold brilliant day at 11 a.m., I came round the corner of some derelict farm buildings. Within a Space of four or five Square yards a fox was sun-bathing together with three pheasants, while a further five pheasants later got up just round the corner in the next yard. Of course they all saw me and scattered. 21ST JUNE (drenching wet day but Clearing towards evening). I was badger-watching in Forestry Commission plantations. The badgers were up while there was still daylight, and stayed with me some time. Later, one went behind me and


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