Worried about a potential fox in your garden? Since entering fox season, we received lots of questions about foxes. Especially as sightings increase at this time of year. So, we decided to dedicate a blog post to answering the most common questions we receive.
1. Why are foxes coming into my backgarden?
There are many reasons foxes enter gardens. Mostly, it is in search of food. However, at this time of year, they are looking for a safe space to settle. Ahead of having cubs.
2. Why are foxes digging up my flower beds?
Foxes are omnivores. Meaning they eat virtually anything. So, they tend to dig up flower beds and lawns searching for food. Such as worms, and insects. However, they will eat the vegetation if necessary.
3. Can I feed the fox in my garden?
Feeding foxes is not advisable. As it will encourage settling. A fox won’t leave a property if the owner is providing a food source. Foxes are disruptive, messy and annoying. And once settled, they destroy gardens.
However, feeding a fox is perfectly fine if you are happy to have them on your land.
4. Can I approach the fox in my garden?
We would not advise you to approach a fox. Even if it seems friendly. Foxes are skittish, and will more than likely flee if approached. However, as wild animals they are unpredictable. If they feel cornered, or if they feel their cubs are in danger, they may attack.
5. What to do if a fox approaches me?
Some foxes are braver than others. And more curious. Consequently, they feel comfortable approaching humans. Don’t encourage this! Clap and shout to scare them away. Try to teach them that humans are a danger. And to avoid them at all costs.
5. Will foxes attack my pets?
Foxes can attack pets. However, it depends on the species of pet. Foxes rarely attack dogs. As they tend to find them intimidating. However, if a dog is a threat to a cub, a fox will attack.
Foxes sometimes hunt and eat cats. However, this is mostly just kittens and older, slower cats. This is because foxes are opportunistic predators. And kittens and older cats tend to be defenceless. Consequently, making them easy prey.
Likewise, foxes will eat rabbits. As they are small and defenceless. Never leave pets wandering the back garden. Especially at night. Keep cats and dogs indoors. And keep rabbits in a fox-proof outdoor enclosure.
6. Can I prevent foxes from coming into my garden?
Yes, you can prevent foxes from settling in your garden. However, as it is almost mid-February, you don’t have much time left. Read our previous blog post. And follow the 4 simple steps to keep foxes out of your garden.
7. I discovered a den in my garden, how can I get rid of it?
Do not attempt to get rid of a fox den yourself. Once foxes have settled, the only way to get them to leave is by hiring a professional. Ultimate Pest Control provides an unrivalled fox control solution.
Contact Ultimate Pest Control
Have more questions? Or need a professional wildlife control solution? Call or email Ultimate Pest Control today!