Common Name: Red Fox
Scientific Name: Vulpes vulpes
Gender: Females
Birth Date: Spring 2006
History: On April 7, 2006 the Pacific Wildlife Care in California received a call about two six week old orphaned female fox pups. It was reported that the mother and another pup were dead. The rehabilitation center cared for the pups and then began to locate a placement facility for them as the California Department of Fish and Game does not allow the release of red foxes back into the wild. The only options for their survival were either euthanasia or permanent care in a licensed facility. Animal Ark was contacted through the American Sanctuary Association and special arrangements followed. Lisa and Theresa arrived at Animal Ark on May 5, 2007. Because these foxes were avid climbers in their last home, a new enclosure needed to be built. The project was undertaken by Boy Scout Troop 443 with leadership from Eagle Scout Nick Lehan. With partial funding from the Robert Z. Hawkins Foundation and materials donated from Reno Lumber and Tholl Fence, the enclosure was completed in late 2007. This new habitat gives adequate space and a safe environment for the physical and emotional well being of Lisa and Theresa. Thanks to all involved.

Common Name: Arctic Fox
Scientific Name: Alopex lagopus
Gender: Female
Birth Date: Spring 2001
History: Effie arrived at Animal Ark on October 6, 2002. She was raised by humans and apparently was someone’s pet prior to her escape. After a brief stay with a wildlife rehabilitator, another home was found for Effie at a wildlife park, but her introduction to the other foxes did not go well. Animal Ark was then contacted as space was available for an Arctic fox. Effie has adjusted well. She enjoys the large enclosure and feels right at home in our winter snows.

Common Name: Gray Fox
Scientific Name: Urocyon Cineroargenteus
Gender: Male, Female
Birth Date: Spring 1997
History: Carson and Bella arrived at the Animal Ark on March 7, 2006. There were space limitations at the animal park in Southern California where this pair was housed and a new home was sought. he foxes, considered surplus, initially came from an animal trainer in the movie and/or show industry. It is not uncommon for animals in this environment to become surplus when no longer needed for films or shows or when their temperaments do not agree with this type of work. When filming a movie it will often take numerous animals to play the role of one individual. In the movie “Eight Below”, there were 32 dogs used to film the story about 8 sled dogs.

Common Name: Kit Fox
Scientific Name: Vulpes macrotis
Gender: Kipling: Male, Kesha: Female
Birth Date: April 1, 1995
History: Born at Animal Ark on April 1, 1995, these foxes will represent their species and educate visitors for many years. These animals are found only in specific regions of the Western United States and have been listed as endangered in the San Joaquin area of California. The kit fox is an animal of interest with its adaptability to desert life, which includes its large ears, tremendous agility, and small size. Kipling and Kesha are socialized to humans. You may see some of the same reactions to people that would be seen in the wild with other kit foxes. Although not noted climbers like the gray fox, Kesha has been found sleeping in the tree limbs.

Common Name: Red Fox
Scientific Name: Vulpes vulpes
Gender: Male
Birth Date: April 8, 2000
History: Jonathan arrived at the Ark when he was seven weeks old. He was captive born among a litter of seven that were bred for the entertainment industry. Animals like this often do not have much of a future after their initial appearance in a movie or on television. After five litter mates were placed, Animal Ark was contacted. Jonathan’s arrival completes the Ark’s exhibit representation of the four main species of fox found in North America (Kit, Gray, Red, & Arctic). Jonathan is a silver phase of the red fox which shows the variation of colors found in this species.