The fox has a highly varied diet. In rural areas, it has long been known for attacking chickens, giving it a poor reputation among farmers. Today, however, more and more farmers - whether working in fields, greenhouses, or orchards - are pleased to have foxes nearby and even encourage their presence. The reason is simple: farms and crops are often heavily affected by rodents. Although small, rodents exist in large numbers and can cause serious damage to crops. Some species dig underground tunnels through tree roots and feed on them. Field voles, which weigh between 20 and 150 grams, consume up to twice their body weight in grains or leaves every day, and they are particularly fond of root vegetables. In comparison, a single fox can eat between 3,000 and 6,000 rodents each year. Their role in controlling these populations is therefore highly beneficial and requires no chemical products.
The fox also uses a unique hunting technique known as “mousing.” It waits patiently for prey to come close before leaping into the air with the help of its hind legs. The fox then lands on its front paws, with its muzzle directed toward the rodent to catch it in its teeth. This impressive ability is possible because a fox’s bones are thinner and lighter than those of a dog, making it stealthy, fast, and agile.
Translation: Tilly O'Neill
