The Red fox (Vulpes vulpes)
Although climate change predominantly affects many species in a negative way, this is not the case for all species. The reduction of the tundra biome due to warming, can provide a positive outlook to species such as the Red fox.
Biology & Ecology
Red foxes are widely adapted animals which are capable of living across a diverse range of habitats. They are found within areas such as grasslands, forests, mountains and deserts (6). Adept in survival they are known to utilise resources efficiently and easily adapt to suburban environments, such as farms and large communities (4). Often more than not, Red foxes are known to occasionally prey on young and adult Arctic foxes (1). Furthermore Red foxes hunt in excess (when able to do so) and bury food in caches, to be consumed later (7).
As shown in Figure 1, Red foxes dominate in North America, Europe, Asia and Northern Africa. Red foxes are known to have high metabolic demands among all the foxes and therefore it is mandatory to find potential food sources (7). As a result they often have to outcompete other species in terms of resources and landscapes (5).
As shown in Figure 1, Red foxes dominate in North America, Europe, Asia and Northern Africa. Red foxes are known to have high metabolic demands among all the foxes and therefore it is mandatory to find potential food sources (7). As a result they often have to outcompete other species in terms of resources and landscapes (5).
Is it all positive for the Red fox?
When seasonal changes occur, the Red fox is not appropriately prepared. In areas where winter conditions are common, the added snow cover impedes access to prey (8). Additionally, winter increases the the energetic requirements of the species (7). In order to satisfy these conditions, a significant amount of resources are being consumed and movements to the North have been observed in the search for more (1).