FENNEC FOXES By Robyn Mele and Cindy Kruth

CLASSIFICATION � The fennec fox is a small nocturnal fox found mostly in deserts around North Africa including the Sahara. � Its most distinctive feature is its unusually large ears which also keeps the animal cool.

DIET � The fennec fox is an omnivore. Food sources include plants , rodents, insects , birds , eggs, rabbits and fruits. � A fennec fox weighs around 1. 5 -3. 5 lb, with a body length of 21 -41 cm.

HABITAT They dig out dens in the hot sandy soil. � Usually they live in packs of ten, which is different to the red fox who lives solitary. � They are able to withstand tremendous heat which enables them to live in the desert. �

REPRODUCTION �A typical litter is three to five kits. � Very little is known about how wild fennec foxes behave, as they are difficult to track. � Fennec foxes are able to run at 25 mph. � Sadly the fennec fox is hunted for its fur.

APPEARANCE � The fennec fox has sandy coloured fur, large ears and a long cat-like body. � A fennec fox is of least concern as they are quite frequently sighted.

PREDATORS � The Fennec fox has one main predator: the native eagle owl. � It doesn’t have many enemies because of its speed which makes it hard to catch.

INTERESTING FACT � Fennec Foxes are legal as pets and have a high intelligence level.

ANATOMY