Happy Friday Everyone!! As you can tell I am pretty excited that the weekend is just around the corner.  I am also really excited about today’s Wild Fact which is on one of the coolest canine species out there, the Fennec Fox.  Just look at the ears on this animal, how could you not love them, right? In order to learn about this interesting fox we will need to take a quick trip to the Sahara Desert.  Yes I know that is in Africa but don’t worry we will still be home in time for the weekend.

Of all the fox species in the world the Fennec Fox is the smallest with a typical body length of 35 – 40 cm (14 – 16″).  The tail of this particular canine is very long compared to their body and ranges in length from 18 – 31 cm (7 – 12.2″).  Those ears that look so huge are actually about 15 cm (6″) long so yeah compared to their body they are quite large.  In fact if you do the math their ears are almost half the size of their body length.

As you can imagine the abnormally large ears do serve a purpose otherwise they probably wouldn’t have them.  In this case the ears radiate body heat which in turn keeps the Fennec Fox cool.  You have to remember that these animals are living in the desert where the days are blistering hot and the nights are cool.  To help with the cold nights the fox has developed long, thick hair which acts as insulation.  I know you are probably thinking that this thick coat would be horrible during the day but believe it or not this thick layer plays an important role in protecting the fox from the harsh desert sun.  Not only does the Fennec Fox have a thick coat on their body but their feet are also covered with hair.  This allows them to be able to walk along the hot sand during the day.  I am sure we have all experienced this intense heat on our feet at one time or another.  I never thought that I would wish for hairy feet but I kinda want them for the summer.

The Fennec Fox will usually live in communities of about 10 individuals and like other fox species are highly territorial.  The males will usually mark their territory with urine and will become extremely aggressive during mating season.  I guess it is a guy thing because I am pretty sure all of us guys have the exact same behaviour.

I guess that just about does it for Friday’s fun-filled fact on the Fennec Fox.  I don’t want to brag but check out that impressive alliteration.  Alright I am done boasting about my English skills.  Have a great weekend.