Foxes in New York: Types and Where They Live

New York is home to two types of foxes. The red and gray fox are the two species you will encounter while visiting this state. Learn more about these animals and where you can find them!

Areas They Inhabit

The most common type of fox you will come across in New York is the red fox. They can be found in nearly every county in the state of New York. With their thick, luxurious coats are meant for colder, more open landscapes. Gray foxes are more likely to be found in warmer areas of wooded environments. While they enjoy varied landscapes, such as forests, fields, orchards, and brush, gray foxes will linger closer to thickets or swamps. Since these animals don’t hibernate, they will be active all year.

Characteristics of the Red Fox

The red fox can be identified by their reddish coat, bushy tail with a white tip, and black pointy ears and legs. Their long snouts are also hard to miss! You will typically find these animals to stand about two feet tall and reach three feet in length. While red foxes prefer to eat rodents and rabbits, they will also eat fruits and vegetables. This curious little animal isn’t afraid to show its face in more suburban neighborhoods, so make sure you keep your trash can locked up tight!

These animals mate in the winter season. Afterward, the female will build a den. Most female red foxes can deliver between one and 12 pups in a single litter. The babies are usually born with a muted brown or gray color, developing their tell-tale red hue after about a month. The pups are tended to by the mother and father but set out on their own once the next fall season starts.

Characteristics of the Gray Fox

Did you know that the gray fox was once more predominant than the red fox? Due to deforestation and human advancement, the red fox became the most common fox on the east coast. You can identify these foxes by their peppery gray and reddish-brown fur, while their legs and feet are a solid red hue. Their bushy tail has a black tip, which is the easiest way to differentiate them from the red fox.

Their diet and mating habits match that of the red fox. One other key difference is their size. Gray foxes tend to be smaller than red foxes in both height and length. While the red fox is known for its ability to jump and leap, the gray fox is better known for its ability to nimbly climb trees. This is why some gray foxes use hollow trees as a den!