Primary Foxes Located in North America

Primary Foxes Located in North America

There are a total of twenty-two different species of fox in 5 different genus exist worldwide, but this article only lists the primary foxes located throughout Canada and the United States.   It’s worth noting that foxes are part of the  canidae family of mammals that includes wolves, dogs, coyotes and jackals.   From a hunting or tracking perspective it is good to know that foxes have a well developed senses of smell and hearing, which has likely developed do to their less acute eyesight.

Vulpes:
Vulpes are the largest genus of foxes comprised of 12 different living species, of which the largest and most common species of the group is the red fox.  Known as the largest of the “True Foxes” they can be found throughout most of the northern hemisphere.   Body size generally vary between 18 to 35 inches in length with an additional 13 to 21 inches of tail.  Grown adults can reach weights of up to 30 pounds.

Urocyon:

Also referred to as the Grey Fox can primarily be found living from southern Canada, down through the United States and into parts of Central America.  One unique trait about the grey fox is that it’s the only member of this canidae family with the ability to climb trees.

Sample of Grey Fox Tracks and Pattern:

 Some information sourced via Wikipedia

Information and regulations on hunting foxes and other small game in Canada can be located under the Small Games section of Ministry of Natural Resources for each  respective province.  For Ontario a small note:

Winter Small Game Hunting Opportunities 

Red fox: September 15 to the end of February is the red fox hunting season north of the French and Mattawa rivers. In southern Ontario the season is open throughout the year.

This is only a reference, please refer to the MNR for all other details.