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Red fox tracks are often confused with their cousins, the gray fox and coyote:
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Gray Fox
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Red Fox
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Coyote
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Forepaw
Height: 1.6"
Width: 1.4"
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Forepaw
Height: 2.3"
Width: 2"
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Forepaw
Height: 2.6"
Width: 2.1"
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Hindpaw
Height: 1.5"
Width: 1.3"
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Hindpaw
Height: 2.1"
Width: 2"
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Hindpaw
Height: 2.4"
Width: 2"
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Depending on conditions, the tracks might look very similar, but here are some fairly unique traits:
- The plantar pad (also called the palm, or interdigital pad) is raised to form a distinct "v".
- The claws of a fox are slightly retractable, so they might not show.
- With thick fur between their toes, sometimes only the tip of each pad can be seen.
- They leave purposeful, efficient tracks in straight lines.
- The hind feet may re-use the same impression as the front feet.
Distinguishing a red fox print from a domestic dog can also be tricky, because there are so many breeds. If boot prints are nearby, or the track is erradict, chances are it's not a fox. Finding other signs in such cases is helpful; scat, food waste, etc.
Another way to identify a red fox track is by its gait; the way it walks:
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Stride: 10" - 16" walk, 18" - 36" run |
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 | Straddle:
3" to 4.2"
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Red foxes can run at over 30 miles per hour!
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