Species: Lycalopex vetelus
Genus: Lycalopex
Conservation Status: Near Threatened
General Overview
The hoary fox or hoary zorro is a species of zorro or “false” fox endemic to Brazil. Unlike most foxes, they are primarily insectivorous.
Description
The hoary fox has a short muzzle, sharp teeth, short coat and slender limbs. The upper part of their body is grey, and the underside of their body is cream or fawn. They usually have a black-tipped tail, as well as reddish/tawny ears and outer legs.
They are also small for a fox, weighing only 3- 4 kg, with a body length usually not exceeding 72cm. Because of their slender form and small size, the hoary fox is an agile and fast-running animal; although it has relatively weak teeth, making it more suited for feeding on invertebrates.
Behaviour and Diet
Hoary foxes are nocturnal, and are largely solitary outside of the breeding season. They mainly eat insects such as termites and dung beetles, but they can also eat rodents, small birds and fruit. Their home ranges vary widely depending on the local environment.
Reproduction
Females usually give birth to two to four pups in August to September, after a gestation period of 50 days. The female prepares a den in which to give birth, and sometimes uses the burrows of other animals.
