Fennec Fox

Fennec Fox Facts

• This undeniably remarkable mammal most frequently goes by the deceptively simple common name of the Fennec Fox in its native range. That term derives from the Arabic word fanak. For the moment, this small wonder of evolution has no other accepted generally accepted name.
• In scientific circles, though, it’s typically significantly better known by its entirely formal moniker. Fortunately for the layperson, that’s a term more easily pronounced than many others. That’s because this intriguing wild canine bears the official name of the Vulpes zerda.
• The animal received that title due to the efforts of the respected German zoologist, Eberhardt August Wilhelm von Zimmermann. He accomplished the first recognition of it as a separate and distinct species. This scientifically noteworthy event occurred in the year 1780.
• This charming creation of Nature and evolution stands out in the annals of science for one extremely notable reason. Currently, it represents the smallest of all known species of fox on earth today. This distinction serves to make it a subject of great interest to many researchers.
• Fortunately, the Fennec Fox appears to be maintaining a population base that’s both sufficient and stable. This pleasant trend also seems to hold true throughout the entirety of its known range. The IUCN currently classifies the animal as Least Concern on its published Red List.
• Nevertheless, this fascinating creature faces several threats to its continued existence as a species. In its native range, wild specimens are commonly trapped, either for sale to toursits or for exhibition. It also now faces the same threat of ongoing climate change as all species.

Related Articles

Fennec Fox Physical Description

The gorgeous Fennec Fox easily captivates most people fortunate enough to encounter one of these wonders. Unlike some species, however, this occurs more due to its appearance than sheer size. That’s due to the previously noted fact that it’s the smallest of all known species of wild canines.

The lovely mammal does share a very common trait with its many relatives, though. That’s true given the fact that it displays a certain degree of the physiological characteristic of sexual dimorphism. In its specific case, this trait manifests itself purely in terms of physical measurements.

More precisely, males attain a larger average size than their female counterparts. The difference remains relatively minor, though. With the exception of this trait, the two genders are virtually indistinguishable to the untrained eye. This situation often complicates casual identification.

The females of the amazing, visually impressive species reach an average head and body length equaling approximately 13.6 – 15.6 in (34.5 – 39.5 cm). Male specimens, meanwhile, grow to an average measurement equaling 15.4 – 15.6 in (39 – 39.5 cm) for the same physical structure.

Weights vary accordingly between the different sexes as well. The females typically weigh somewhere between 2.2 – 4.2 lb (1.0 – 1.9 kg). The males, however, usually tend to attain a slightly greater mass. The tail for both genders of the wonder averages roughly 9.1 – 9.8 in (23 – 25 cm).

The appealing coat of the Fennec Fox typically presents a blending of creamy tan and white shades. The fur itself also has a fluffy nature, serving to help keep it warm at night. The ears represent its most recognizable feature. In ratio to body size, they’re the largest of all known wild canines.

• Kingdom: Animalia
• Phylum: Chordata
• Class: Mammalia
• Order: Carnivora
• Family: Canidae
• Genus: Vulpes
• Species: V. zerda

Fennec Fox Distribution, Habitat, and Ecology

The visual wonder that’s the Fennec Fox evolved as native to a respectable range of the surface of the globe. The location of that zone of habitation, though, might surprise some people. That true since it remains endemic to portions of Africa, as well as a small section of the Middle East.

In Africa, the lovely creature principally appears in certain portions of the Sahara. That area extends from Mauritania to Morocco. From there, its range extends through Egypt. The canine even appears in sections of the Sanai Peninsula. Some specimens also live in the country of Israel. 

Nature additionally guided this animal through a very precise evolutionary path. It developed decidedly unexpected preferences in terms of its choice of habitat. The animal primarily inhabits areas that most mammals, especially smaller ones, would scrupulously avoid at all costs.

That’s true since it’s principally a desert environment species. The mammal typically makes its home in small sands. Some, however, also live in various vast, treeless sandy areas with sparse vegetation. That flora generally consists of various species of sedges, grasses, and small shrubs.

The Fennec Fox developed a primarily nocturnal nature. It commonly prefers to spend its days in its den, usually dug in the sand and located near patches of vegetation. This also appear highly organized, measuring as much as 1,291 sq ft (120 sq m), with up to 15 entrances and exits.

It also evolved as an omnivorous creature. The animal’s diet primarily consists of various insects, rodents, eggs, and occasionally rabbits. It typically hunts by pouncing on its prey, leaping from a stationary position. Its own main predators consist of owls, jackals, and sometimes hyenas.

Species Sharing Its Range

Check out our other articles on Naked Man Orchid, 7 Truly Astounding Geological Wonders, Lycaste Orchid, 7 Astounding Polar Creatures, Axolotl, California red-sided garter snake