Cross Fox – Complete Guide | Vulpes vulpes

The Cross Fox, a variation of the red fox (Vulpes vulpes), is a unique color morph characterized by its distinctive coat coloration.

Cross Fox

Here’s some information about the Cross Fox:

Topic	Information
Scientific Classification	– Kingdom: Animalia
	– Phylum: Chordata
	– Class: Mammalia
	– Order: Carnivora
	– Family: Canidae
	– Genus: Vulpes
	– Species: Vulpes vulpes
Physical Appearance	– Coat Color: The Cross Fox is a red fox variant known for its unique coat coloration. It has a dark stripe down its back, forming a cross shape, which gives it its name.
	– Size: Cross Foxes are similar in size to red foxes, with a typical length of about 18 to 35 inches (45 to 90 centimeters) and a tail length of 13 to 17 inches (33 to 43 centimeters).
Range and Habitat	Cross Foxes can be found in North America, including parts of Canada and the United States. They inhabit a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and urban areas.
Behavior and Lifestyle	Cross Foxes share similar behavior and habits with red foxes. They are primarily crepuscular, being most active during dawn and dusk.
Reproduction and Life Cycles	– Breeding: Cross Foxes typically breed once a year. The breeding season varies depending on their location.
	– Pup Care: After a gestation period of about 49 to 55 days, females give birth to litters of 2 to 12 pups, with the average being around 5 or 6 pups.
Diet and Prey	Cross Foxes are omnivorous and have a varied diet. They primarily prey on small mammals, birds, and insects but may also eat fruit and plant material.
Predators and Threats	Cross Foxes face various threats, including habitat loss due to urban development. They are also hunted for their fur, which is considered valuable.
Interesting Facts and Features	– Coat Variation: The distinctive cross-shaped stripe on their back is the most notable feature of the Cross Fox.
	– Fur Trade: Historically, Cross Foxes were hunted for their fur, which was used in the fur trade.
Relationship with Humans	Cross Foxes, like red foxes, tend to avoid direct contact with humans and are often more active during periods of low human activity.
Conservation Status and Life Today	Cross Foxes are not typically considered a separate species or subspecies but rather a color variant of the red fox. As such, their conservation status is similar to that of the red fox, which varies by region.