Gray fox

The gray fox, sometimes spelled "grey fox" is a fascinating and adaptable mammal belonging to the Canidae family. This omnivorous creature is found throughout North and Central America. It stands out as the only extant member of the genus Urocyon, making it one of the oldest lineages of canids. Notably, the gray fox possesses the unique ability to climb trees, a feat unmatched by any other American canid.

The gray fox is identifiable by its grizzled fur, a distinctive black stripe running along its tail, and oval-shaped pupils. Typically, they weigh between 8 to 15 pounds and can reach lengths of up to 44 inches.

The gray fox has been present in North America since the mid-Pliocene epoch. Genetically, it is quite distinct from other canids like the red fox. Its closest relatives are the East Asian raccoon dog and the African bat-eared fox. Gray foxes inhabit a wide range of environments, from southern Canada to northern South America, and are commonly found in rocky or wooded areas. They are primarily nocturnal or crepuscular and prefer to rest in hollow trees during the day.

Breeding seasons for gray foxes vary depending on their geographic location. Females have a gestation period of approximately 53 days, typically giving birth to litters of 1 to 7 pups. Their diet is diverse, including small mammals, birds, and insects. Males are generally slightly larger than females, exhibiting some degree of sexual dimorphism. There are 16 recognized subspecies of the gray fox, each occupying different regions.