Identification Alert - Foxes are born with very dark, sometimes black, fur. They have rounded faces and have bright blue eyes when first opened. Fox cubs can often be mistaken for puppies or kittens. If you are unsure, please contact a wildlife rescue centre for help with identification.

I have found a fox cub, what should I do?

Unless the cub is in imminent danger, such as from dogs, cars, building works etc. it is advisable to step back and assess the situation. Vixens can often move their young from one den to another due to a disturbance or because it has been outgrown by the cubs. If this is the case, young cubs may be left above ground for short periods of time. Healthy young foxes will be plump and bright eyed and should be wary of humans. As the cubs grow older they may stay above ground for long periods of time playing without the supervision of adult foxes, again, healthy fox cubs will be bright and alert. If you find a fox cub out above the ground and it is obviously distressed, injured or completely unresponsive the best course of action is to very carefully wrap it in a towel or a jumper, pick it up and place it in a box. If you have a hot water bottle or heat pad you can place that in the box as well. Don't try and feed it before seeking further advice. Warning – Even young fox cubs can have a nasty bite if scared, make sure you handle animals with care, preferably with gloves.