Connecting with the Shy Fox

An Eastern Red Fox sits on top of a grassy dune.

Connecting with the Shy Fox

I have been deeply drawn to our Eastern Red Foxes for many years. In Provincetown, where we have seen significant expansion and development, these remarkable creatures have learned to adapt. Our red foxes are unmistakable with their striking appearance, vibrant russet fur, black stockings, and distinctive white-tipped tails. We often see them crossing Commercial Street on their way to the beach by the harbor or in the west end along the breakwater.

In recent years, I have been fortunate to be near red foxes with kits in the Cape Cod National Seashore. These shy predators make their dens in the coastal dunes, under quiet wood structures, and in Beech Forest. I have spent hours observing their behavior and enjoying individual foxes' unique personalities. I hope my images will also help you feel a connection with them.

Foxes exhibit a remarkable degree of behavioral flexibility. They are skilled hunters, using their keen senses and explosive speed to pursue prey ranging from small rodents to ground-nesting birds. They are nature’s clean-up crew. Foxes are also highly intelligent, with an ability to remember the location of food caches and to use tools to access hard-to-reach resources.

By sharing their lives through my photography with you, I hope to bring a greater understanding and stewardship of these remarkable creatures and the fragile ecosystems they inhabit.

Until next time,

Elizabeth

Siblings. One kit is curled up for a nap and the other is poised for playtime with a friendly chomp.