We’d appreciate any sightings or recent trail cam images (within the last 6 Months) of gray foxes that are alive. Just send an email or call Dave Hoffman or Vince Evelsizer with location information such as GPS coordinates or Twp,Rge,Sec. Dropping and sending a pin works great too.
Dave Hoffman – Iowa DNR Wildlife
Phone: 641-425-0737
Email:
Vince Evelsizer – Iowa DNR Wildlife
Phone: 641-231-1522
Email:
DEAD
If you find a dead gray fox (roadkill, trapped, hunted, other) that’s in decent condition, we’d be interested in having the carcass for further examination/necropsy. Please contact Rachel Ruden (Iowa DNR Vet) or Vince Evelsizer if you do have one.
Rachel Ruden – Iowa DNR Wildlife Veterinarian
Phone: 515-823-8544
Email:
Vince Evelsizer – Iowa DNR Wildlife
Phone: 641-231-1522
Email:
Identifying a Gray Fox!
The gray fox is smaller than coyotes and red foxes. Adult gray foxes typically weigh 10 – 12 lbs. They are mostly gray with patches of reddish, tan fur down the side of their neck and body. A distinct black line extends down the top of their tail. Their face also has distinct black and white markings.
Why are we asking about gray fox locations?
Gray fox were listed as a Species of Greatest Conservation Need in Iowa in 2015 based on a decline in the gray fox population observed over the past 25 years. Similar trends have been noted in several other Midwestern states. The gray fox population decline in Iowa is correlated with increases in the population of coyotes, raccoons, and bobcats. Increasing coyote and bobcat populations may affect gray fox populations through competition and predation. Raccoons may impact gray fox populations through the spread of disease, particularly canine distemper virus. Canine distemper is common in raccoons, and gray fox
