Gray Fox
Adobe Stock
Medium sized fox that has grizzled gray fur along its back with a light colored underside. Patches of red are found on its neck, belly and the inside of its legs. Its tail is black-tipped. It is generally smaller than the more common red fox.
Status in North Dakota
Resident.
Range Map
Gray Fox possible range.
Reason for SWAP Designation
Identified as a Regional Species of Conservation Priority by the Midwest Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies.
Petitioned for Listing Under the Endangered Species Act with a decision pending in 2028.
It appears its population has decline within its range.
A relative newcomer to the state, North Dakota appears to be the northwestern edge of its range.
Threats
Loss of riparian areas is a concern for Gray Fox. It uses these areas to hunt, and also dens in logs and brush piles. Conversion of grassland/shrub habitats to other land uses.
Research and Monitoring
- Gray Fox are furbearer in North Dakota. The North Dakota Game and Fish Department with use fur harvest records and submissions to the Online Furbearer Observation Reporting system to track Gray Fox.
Management Recommendations
- Protect riparian areas where possible with conservation agreements.
- Continue to use the Section 404 program to ensure affected rivers and riparian areas are mitigated to replace form and function.
- Develop and promote incentive programs to restore riparian areas.
- Continue to work with partners in promoting and distributing educational materials related to river, stream and riparian values and good stewardship.
Primary Geological Regions
Habitat Associations
Habitat Use
Gray Fox prefer brushy/shrubby habitat often associated with forested habitats.
Throughout their range they are found in agricultural landscapes and woodlots.
They are often associated with riparian areas.
Unique amongst canids, gray fox are well known for their ability to climb trees to forage, rest, or escape from predators.
In North Dakota they are uncommon, but records of sightings are found in most counties in the eastern 2/3rds of the state.
Riparian areas of the Red, James, Sheyenne, and Missouri rivers would be potentially key areas for the Gray Fox.
Small rodents, squirrels, and rabbits compromise the greatest portion of their diet.
Grasshoppers, beetles, fruits, and berries may also be consumed.