Yes foxes can carry rabies. In fact any mammal can carry rabies including humans. The rabies virus attacks the central nervous system causing neurological symptoms such as paralysis and convulsions. In the United States most human rabies cases come from exposure to infected bats but any mammal could theoretically transmit the virus to humans.
The good news is that rabies in foxes is relatively rare. In the US there have only been a handful of confirmed cases of fox rabies in the last few decades. The majority of rabies cases in wildlife are actually in raccoons skunks and bats. So if you see a fox with strange behavior it’s more likely that it’s sick with something other than rabies.
If you are bitten by a fox or any other mammal it’s important to seek medical attention immediately. The doctor will clean the wound and may give you a rabies vaccination if there is a risk of exposure to the virus. In most cases the vaccine is effective and you will not develop rabies.
Sources:
https://www.cdc.gov/rabies/exposure/postexposure_immunization.html
https://www.nrdc.org/stories/are-foxes-dangerous
https://www.livescience.com/28499-rabies.html
Can foxes carry rabies?
Yes foxes can carry rabies.
Where do foxes typically live?
Foxes typically live in wooded areas.
What do foxes eat?
Foxes are omnivores so they eat both plants and animals.
How big are foxes?
An adult fox typically weighs around 15 pounds.
What is the lifespan of a fox?
A fox typically lives around 2-5 years in the wild.
Are foxes dangerous to humans?
While foxes typically aren’t dangerous to humans they can carry rabies so it’s important to be cautious if you come in contact with one.
What does a fox look like?
A fox typically has a reddish coat and a white chest belly and throat.
How do foxes reproduce?
Foxes typically reproduce once a year and they give birth to litters of around 4-5 puppies.
How do foxes communicate?
Foxes communicate through a variety of sounds including barks screams whimpers and howls.
What predators do foxes have?
Some of the predators of foxes include coyotes bobcats and eagles.
How do foxes defend themselves?
Foxes typically use their speed and agility to escape from predators but they will also fight back if necessary.
What is the biggest threat to foxes?
The biggest threat to foxes is habitat loss.
Are foxes endangered?
No foxes are not currently endangered.
What is the scientific name for a fox?
The scientific name for a fox is Vulpes vulpes.
What color is a fox’s fur?
A fox’s fur is typically red or orange.
