Variation in the social system of the red fox

Abstract

The existing literature on the ranging behaviour, territoriality, sociality and mating system of the red fox (Vulpes vulpes) is reviewed. Red fox home ranges are often unstable, varying in size suddenly or seasonally, shifting, and drifting; excursions are common. Floating individuals often occur in populations, but it is unclear whether they do not have an home range or range over stable areas much larger than those of resident foxes. Territoriality seems not very strict. Sociality is limited to co-operation in the raising of cubs. Evidence for both monogamy and polygyny is present. The red fox social structure might have evolved as fairly tolerant assemblages under the pressure of larger predators.