
Red Fox
Vulpes vulpes
wildlifeHow to Identify
Red foxes are medium-sized canids with reddish-orange fur, a white-tipped bushy tail, and black legs and ears. They have a slender build and a pointed muzzle. Adults typically weigh between 8 and 15 pounds and are about 3 feet long including the tail.
Signs of Infestation
While not an infestation in the traditional sense, signs of red fox activity include scattered trash, dug-up gardens or lawns, and the presence of scat (droppings). You may also hear their characteristic high-pitched yelping or barking sounds, especially at night. Small pets left unattended may also disappear.
Health Risks
Red foxes can carry rabies and other diseases transmissible to humans and pets. Avoid direct contact. They may also prey on small domestic animals, posing a threat to pets in the Myrtle Beach area. Their presence near homes can also be unsettling for residents, especially those with children.
Our Treatment Method
MBPC does not offer direct removal of red foxes, as they are protected wildlife. However, we can provide guidance on deterrent strategies and habitat modification to discourage their presence on your Grand Strand property. Contacting the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) or a licensed wildlife removal specialist is recommended for relocation concerns, adhering to state regulations.
Prevention Tips
Secure trash cans to prevent foxes from accessing food scraps. Keep pet food indoors and avoid leaving it outside overnight, as this attracts wildlife. Clear brush and overgrown vegetation around your property to reduce potential denning sites. Install motion-activated lights or fencing to deter foxes from entering your yard in the Myrtle Beach area.
Habitat
Red foxes are adaptable animals found in various habitats, including suburban and urban areas of Myrtle Beach. They den in wooded areas, thickets, or under structures like sheds and decks. They are commonly observed near golf courses, parks, and residential neighborhoods along the Grand Strand, taking advantage of available food sources and shelter.
Peak activity: Year-Round
Identification Photos
Frequently Asked Questions About Red Fox
While generally shy, red foxes can become habituated to humans and may approach for food. They can carry rabies, so avoid direct contact. If you see a fox acting aggressively or exhibiting unusual behavior, contact animal control or the SCDNR immediately.
Do not attempt to trap or remove the fox yourself. Contact a licensed wildlife removal specialist or the SCDNR for guidance. They can provide humane removal options and advice on preventing future denning in your Myrtle Beach property.
Red foxes may prey on small pets, such as cats, rabbits, and small dogs, especially if they are left unattended outdoors. Keep pets indoors, especially at night, and supervise them when they are outside in areas known to have fox activity near Myrtle Beach.
Red foxes are attracted to yards with readily available food sources, such as unsecured trash cans, pet food, and fallen fruit. They also seek shelter under decks, sheds, and in overgrown vegetation. Removing these attractants can help deter them from your Myrtle Beach home.
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