Fox Study Update and Help Needed

 

Photo: Peter Hunter

This was posted to the Bristol Naturalist Society, Bristol and Surrounding Area Wildlife and Bristol Nature Network. However, it applies to any and all people -fox watchers, feeders, etc- who have photographs of foxes from around the UK.

If you can help this project please just state town/city -NO EXACT LOCATIONS. If you have a good side on photo as well as head on showing the chest area taken during daylight that would work.

You can PM your photos to me and they will be greatfully received.

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Hello All!

The current research of the Fox Study (1976) into fox fur morphs has been turning up a lot of surprises nationally.

However, Bristol has been an eye opener and I was born here and fox watched since the 1970s! Todate I have receuived photographs from BS2, BS3, BS4, BS 5, BS6, BS7, BS9, BS 11, BS14 and BS16. The analysis of these is showing a major change in fox types - lots of grey and white haired foxes but strong evidence of melanism being present.

As a naturalist/mammalogist this is very interesting and when taken in context with photographs from Scotland down to the SE and SW it is tending to re-write the natural history of foxes.

That said I need far more evidence. Photos have come from only 10 of 37 BS areas. There are variations in some areas so I still need more photos from the areas listed as that helps narrow things down.

However, if any member lives in any of the BS areas PLEASE if you have any clear images of foxes that show their colour (preferably side on) submit them to me by PM. I do not need an exact address just the BS area and if the fox is a long term visitor (some foxes travel a long way and so may be offspring of similar looking foxes in other areas).

All cooperation is most welcome,

Thank You