News

Researchers Seek Gray Fox

Though gray foxes once populated much of northeastern Illinois, biologists are concerned that the species has become scarce. A study in Cook, DuPage, McHenry, and Lake Counties seeks to learn more about the foxes' distribution, and identify key factors contributing to their decline.

The Ohio State University — with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, Max McGraw Wildlife Foundation, and the Forest Preserve District of Cook County — is asking the public to report sightings.

"Local residents help us tremendously," says Alison Willingham of Ohio State. "Our fieldwork is primarily conducted on public property, but residents can report what they see on their private land. This is especially valuable because gray foxes tend to be generalists. They don't always stick to heavily wooded habitats and are often found in urbanized areas."

Typically weighing less than 12 pounds, gray foxes have a grizzled gray coloration and rusty-red fur on their ears, neck, legs, and flanks. Not to be mistaken for red foxes, the grays have white paws and bushy tails tipped in black. They are the only member of the canine family that climb trees, and they are most active in the evening.

The public can report sightings to IllinoisGrayFox@yahoo.com, or call (847) 428-6331, ext. 3. Provide contact information and the time, date, and location of the sighting.

Biologists have been radio-tagging small populations of gray foxes in southeastern Cook County, McHenry County, and an area south of Chicago. Ultimately, the data may help determine the levels of urbanization that gray foxes can tolerate. Researchers also hope to learn how coyote populations compete for habitat with foxes.

— Divina Baratta