SWIFT FOX

"The swift fox is named for the high speeds at which they can move. They will reach speeds of up to 50km/h (30mph) when hunting or looking to avoid a predator.

Unfortunately despite their high speeds the species has still seen significant declines in its population over history. The species faced extinction in Canada but has since been reintroduced there.

What does the Swift Fox look like?

Across their body the swift fox has a coat of light grey or tan fur. Their upper parts have a greyish tinge. A white patch is present on the throat and chest.

At the end of the body is a tail which adds between 18 and 26cm (7 and 10in) to their length. This is bushy and has a black colored tip.

The swift fox measures an average 38-53cm (12.5-21in) long with a weight of between 1.8 and 3kg (4-6.5lbs). They stand 30cm (12in) tall.

Males tend to be larger than females.

How does the Swift Fox survive in its habitat?

Their coat length varies during the year. During summer they have a shorter coat to prevent overheating.

What does the Swift Fox eat?

The swift fox is primarily carnivorous. Most of their diet is focused on small animals such as rodents, birds, eggs and prairie dogs. Some insects and plants are also consumed mostly during summer. Carrion is also consumed.

During winter this species will place excess food under snow so they can return to it later. 

Where do you find the Swift Fox?

North America is the native home of the swift fox. Here they can be found in the United States. They were driven to extinction in Canada but have since been reintroduced here.

Where can the Swift Fox survive?

These animals are found in grassland habitats such as the prairie. In some areas they have been seen to live alongside humans in fallow cropping fields.

They will seek shelter in a den which they dig about 1m (3ft) in to the ground. These tunnel systems can reach up to 4m (13ft) long. Instead of digging their own tunnel they may make use of a badger den.

The burrow is often situated on a hill top. Multiple burrows may be used throughout the course of the year.

Predators and Threats

What stops the Swift Fox from surviving and thriving?

Natural predators of the swift fox include coyotes, badgers, bobcats and birds of prey.

Numbers of the swift fox saw significant declines during the early 1900s. In Canada the last sighting of the species was made in 1928. A recovery began in 1950 and has since seen their population become stable." (Public Domain)