Swift Fox
Vulpes velox
Conservation Status
Least ConcernMammalia · Carnivora · Canidae
About
The swift fox is a small light orange-tan fox around the size of a domestic cat found in the western grasslands of North America, such as Montana, Colorado, New Mexico, Kansas, Oklahoma and Texas. It also lives in southern Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Alberta in Canada, where it was previously extirpated. It is closely related to the kit fox and some mammalogists classify them as conspecific. However, molecular systematics imply that the two species are distinct. Interbreeding between the two species does occur where their ranges overlap, but this hybridization is quite restricted in scope.
Fun Fact
In the wild, the swift fox usually lives 3–6 years, but may live up to 14 years in captivity.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Lives in short-grass prairies and western grassland.
Diet
Omnivore
Lifespan
6 years
Threats
- Habitat Change
- Human Disturbance