By Rory Hale – REALTOR®, Rural Properties & Acreages in the foothills of Alberta
Our Clever Neighbor: Red Foxes
One cool autumn morning, while walking the fence line of my property, I noticed a small, freshly dug hole near the top of the hill. At first, I thought it might be a skunk or even a badger’s doing. But then, from behind a patch of wild roses, a fluffy, copper-colored tail poked out. The culprit emerged, ears twitching and nose to the ground — a red fox, clearly unimpressed by my presence.
She looked me up and down as if sizing me up for trespassing on her domain. Then, in true fox fashion, she gave a single bark — a sharp, yapping sound that sounded almost like laughter. I was thinking she might just be the most opinionated neighbour I’ve met out here, but then I remembered the squirrels that live behind the house. They love to tell me and the dogs who is in charge.
Why Red Foxes Are So Special:
Red foxes are iconic inhabitants of the Alberta foothills. With their bushy tails and sleek, auburn coats, they’re as photogenic as they are elusive. They’re known for their cleverness — from raiding chicken coops to finding the best den sites, they’re always one step ahead.
What makes their presence even more unique is their versatility. Unlike many wild animals, foxes can thrive close to human settlements. You might spot one trotting through your backyard at dawn or hear their eerie, scream-like calls late at night. It’s a sound that can make your heart skip a beat — like something out of a ghost story — but once you know it’s just a fox, it becomes part of the foothills’ rustic soundtrack.
The Fox’s Role in the Ecosystem:
While they might have a reputation as sneaky scavengers, red foxes play a crucial role in maintaining balance in the forest. They help control rodent populations by hunting mice, voles, and even rabbits. This makes them natural pest managers, keeping your garden and acreage from being overrun by small critters.
And their impact doesn’t stop there. Foxes are also seed dispersers, as they occasionally snack on berries and other small fruits. This helps keep plant life diverse and thriving — a surprising contribution from such a wily predator.
Where Do They Live and Wander?
Red foxes are remarkably adaptable. They can dig burrows, but they often take over abandoned dens from badgers or coyotes. You’ll find these crafty creatures setting up camp in grassy fields, forested areas, or even under old sheds. They’re most active at dawn and dusk, slipping through the underbrush with hardly a sound — except for that unexpected bark or scream that can send shivers down your spine.
In the foothills, red foxes don’t migrate. They brave the winter with thick, luxurious coats, curling their tails around themselves for warmth. You’ll see their tracks in the snow — a single line of prints, as their efficient gait keeps their paws close together.
A Fox’s Dinner Menu:
These omnivores aren’t picky. In the wild, they hunt small mammals, birds, and insects. During berry season, they’ll snack on wild raspberries and saskatoons. They’ve even been known to raid compost piles for leftovers, much to the chagrin of homeowners.
One thing’s for sure — a fox’s diet reflects its cunning and adaptability, as they take advantage of whatever is available, whether it’s wild game or a few stray eggs from the chicken coop.
Why the Call Stands Out:
If you’ve never heard a red fox’s call, you might think something supernatural is happening outside your window. Their high-pitched scream or yapping bark can sound downright eerie, like a haunting wail. But it’s all part of their social communication, especially during mating season when they’re trying to impress a potential mate or warn off rivals.
Living Among Foxes:
One of the unique joys of rural living in the Alberta foothills is getting to witness these clever creatures firsthand. Whether they’re sneaking through the underbrush or sitting on a hill, surveying their territory, red foxes add a sense of wild charm to acreage life.
And while they might help themselves to a few berries or investigate your compost, they’re a reminder that living out here means being part of nature’s ongoing story. If you’re looking for a place where wildlife roams freely and life moves at a gentler pace, let me help you find your perfect rural retreat.
As a rural realtor, I’ve seen plenty of wildlife wander through properties, but few are as charming or captivating as the red fox. Life in the Alberta foothills means sharing your space with this cunning, curious, and surprisingly helpful critter.
Curious about life in the Alberta foothills? Let’s find you a property where you can experience wildlife moments like these firsthand. Contact me today, and let’s start your journey to rural living!
Rory Hale - REALTOR®
CIR Realty
403-585-6552
RHale@CIRRealty.ca
