Quick Red Fox Jumps Around the Lazy ‘Burbs

By Jessica Hagendorn Daily Herald Staff Writer

A red fox had the time of his life Wednesday sauntering around a South Elgin neighborhood, visiting mail boxes and at least one front door.

Cute, yes. But what do you do if one ventures into your neck of the woods?

Try to stay away, said Tim Pruess, a research associate at Max McGraw Wildlife Foundation.

Pruess said competition with coyotes in past years has forced more foxes into residential areas.

The animals don’t present any immediate threat to pets or children, Pruess said. But you don’t want to create a habitat for the wild critters.

Here are some tips from Kane County Animal Control:

– Never feed them. They’ll keep coming back and could cause problems.

– Don’t approach them. But if you do come close, they probably will run.

– Keep all pet food and water dishes indoors.

– Feed pets indoors.

– Secure the lids of your trash cans with bungee cords.

– Keep compost in an enclosed container.

– And try placing moth balls, a flashing strobe light or loud music out where you’ve seen them. Wild animals are sensitive to noise, bright light and odors.

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