The Fennec fox (Vulpes zerda)
The Fennec fox is unique among the foxes in that it is the tiniest of all the fox species and occupies the blistering days and equally as cold nights, the desert biome.
Biology & EcologyWell known for its bat-like ears, the Fennec Fox make their home in desert regions of the Sahara Desert and North Africa (Figure 1). Their distinctive ears are a coping mechanism in response to the blistering heat, and radiate their body heat in order to cool down the foxes. In order to walk across the hot desert floor, they have thick fur on their feed that provide traction and protects against the floor. Moreover their long thick fur provides protection from the sun and insulation during the cold nights. (9)
They are a nocturnal species and live within underground dens, where they sleep in during the day. Furthermore they are an opportunistic consumers which prey on a variety of food sources. Living in desert conditions has also resulted in the Fennec fox to endure long periods without consumption the of water. (9) |