Young Fox Receives Tests, Care at Tufts

A juvenile red fox found by and transported to the wildlife clinic at is resting comfortably after undergoing blood tests.

Results will give veterinarians at Tufts University Wildlife Clinic more information about the animal’s overall condition, said Thomas Keppeler, associate director for communications at Tufts University School of Veterinary Medicine.

The animal has intestinal issues so tests are being done to determine if it has worms, Keppeler said.

The animal was found alone on Hartford Street, Natick police report. Its mother could not be located so the youngster was transported to Tufts.

The red fox measures 22 to 32 inches in head and body length, and the tail is 14 to 16 inches long. The adult red fox weight is from 6 to 15 pounds, but it appears heavier than it actually is, according to information provided by the state Division of Fisheries and Wildlife.

The animal is usually recognized by its reddish coat and black "leg-stockings." Red is the most common color, but the hair may be from light yellow to deep auburn red. The white tip on the tail will distinguish this fox from other species, despite its color phase, the division reports.

Although this young fox is in good hands, a young animal's best chance for surviving is with its parents., according to information provided by Tufts wildlife clinic.

The first thing to do if you see a baby animal is to step away. You can assess the young animal from a distance.

Many young animals appear to be abandoned. Oftentimes, their mother has not abandoned the young, but limits the number of visits to the nesting area to prevent predators from discovering the location of their young.

Humans are also considered a predator and the parents will stay away while we are in the area, the clinic reports. If the young look content and quiet they are probably being well cared for and should be left alone.