Heres what to do if you spot a fox visiting your yard or garden.

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Foxes are beautiful animals that you may be surprised to see in your garden.

But like many wildlife species, theyve learned to live near us.

Fox in yard

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“Youll see them in urban and suburban areas because theyve adapted to the conditions.”

Most of the time, foxes are naturally shy and hide from us.

Typically, foxes are not a serious issue for homeowners.

“We advise to give them their space and observe and enjoy the experience.”

They dont hibernate, says Pierce.

The red fox is found in a wide range of vegetation, mostly open woodlands and abandoned farms.

Its reddish with black legs, and a white-tipped tail.

Theyre usually about 8 to 15 pounds and several feet long.

The gray fox is a similar but different species that prefers deciduous forests.

Theyre a little smaller, about 8 to 13 pounds and have mottled grayish fur, says Owen.

Understanding Foxes

Foxes play an important role in the ecosystem.

Foxes may dig their own dens, find a hole under a shed, or use abandonedgroundhogburrows.

The same dens may be used for several years.

Gray foxes may use wood piles, hollow trees, or brush piles as dens, says Pierce.

They stay with their parents, who both care for them, for several months.

Foxes use a variety of calls, including barks, howls, yaps, and growls.

“Its definitely a unique sound you wont forget,” says Owen.