Foxes Spotted Near Carlyle Dog Park

A notification Tuesday evening on the Carlyle Community website warned dog owners that residents have reported seeing foxes in the area. 

Both foxes have been seen near the dog park in the Carlyle community. The dog park is located at the end of Andrews Lane near the tennis courts. 

Residents said the foxes were on Mill Road between the back fence of Carlyle Towers and the dog park. (See the map at right.)

While it is unlikely a fox would attack a dog, it is wise (and legally required) to keep your pet leashed while outside the confines of the dog park.

According to the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria, foxes are native to this area and "have adjusted to being suburban wildlife. ... They are not a threat to citizens unless cornered and feel they need to defend themselves or their pups. ... We recommend that if a resident sees a fox, he or she should simply leave the animal alone."

According to The Wildlife Hotline, "Coyotes and foxes seek out the type of prey that will give them the greatest reward with minimal risk of injury to themselves. As a result, their favored prey include small mammals such as rabbits, mice, rats and squirrels, as well as human-produced food such as garbage, cat or dog food. Coyotes and foxes also eat insects, fruits and berries."