Haematological and biochemical responses of red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) to different capture methods and shooting
This paper sought to determine whether common haematology and blood biochemistry values might assist in determining the relative welfare outcomes arising from the capture of red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) by treadle-snares, Victor Soft Catch® (VSC) #3 traps, cage traps, netting and sampling by shooting. Compared to all other capture methods and shooting, treadle-snared foxes had […]
Feeding enrichment in an opportunistic carnivore: The red fox
In captive carnivores, species-specific behaviour is often restricted by inadequate feeding regimens. Feeding live prey is not feasible in most places and food delivery is often highly predictable in space and time which is considerably different from the situation in the wild. As a result, captive carnivores are often inactive, show little behavioural diversity and […]
Structural enrichment and enclosure use in an opportunistic carnivore: the red fox (Vulpes vulpes)
An increasing number of zoos keep their animals in natural-looking enclosures, but it is often unclear whether or not the species’ behavioural and ecological needs are being adequately met. For species that suffer predation in the wild, structural enrichment in captivity can play a crucial role in connection with enclosure use. Firstly, we examined the […]
Non-lethal control of fox predation: the potential of generalised aversion
Traditionally, game-keepers and agriculturalists have controlled predators using lethal methods, but there are circumstances under which these may be ineffective or inappropriate for animal welfare or conservation reasons. Generalised aversion is potentially a form of non-lethal control, in which predators are conditioned to avoid foul-tasting bait, causing them subsequently to generalise this avoidance to similar, […]
Effects of temporary captivity on ranging behaviour in urban red foxes (Vulpes vulpes)
Temporary removal of wild animals from a resident territory has the potential to markedly impact subsequent ranging behaviour, and may negatively affect post-release welfare and survival. Admission of sick or injured wildlife into temporary captivity (termed ‘rehabilitation’) is a common practice in the UK. However, post-release monitoring of rehabilitated animals is unusual or restricted to […]