Chemical Scent Constituents in the Urine of the Red Fox ( <i>Vulpes vulpes</i> L.) During the Winter Season

Abstract

Four volatile chemical compounds have been identified as apparently unique constituents in urines of red foxes (both sexes) during the winter season when mating occurs. Quinaldine was found only in male fox urine. Several other compounds identified are found in other species also. Some or all of these compounds may function in olfactory communication in the red fox.