One of the rarest mammals in the United States — fewer than 50 individuals confirmed in the wild. Genetically distinct subspecies of red fox.

Native status: Native; federally endangered

§ Quick facts

SizeBody 50–65 cm; tail 25–35 cm
Weight3–5 kg
LifespanWild 6–10 years
OrderCarnivora
FamilyCanidae

§ Encyclopedia

The Sierra Nevada red fox, also known as the High Sierra fox, is a subspecies of red fox found in the Oregon Cascades and the Sierra Nevada. It is likely one of the most endangered mammals in North America. The High Sierra fox shares most of its physical characteristics with the red fox, though it is slightly smaller and has some special adaptions for travel over snow. The High Sierra fox was discovered as a subspecies in 1937, but its study lapsed for more than half a century before its populations were rediscovered beginning in 1993. This subspecies of red fox may live up to 6 years.

Source: Wikipedia — Sierra Nevada red fox Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

§ Identification

Field marks. Medium fox with reddish-brown coat; black legs and ears; bushy tail.

Similar species. Other Vulpes vulpes subspecies. Coyote (larger).

Voice. Barks; squeals.

§ Diet & behavior

Diet. Voles, hares, ground squirrels, birds.

Behavior. Federally endangered. Sierra Nevada subspecies of red fox; restricted to high-elevation montane habitats. Among the rarest carnivores in North America.

§ Range

Sierra Nevada and Cascade Range, California

§ Habitat

Subalpine and alpine forests above 7,000 ft

§ Threats

Climate change shrinking alpine habitat, predation by coyotes and bobcats, disease.

§ Conservation status

According to the IUCN Red List, the sierra nevada red fox is currently classified as Endangered.

§ What helps

Support USFWS Sierra Nevada Red Fox Recovery. Donate to Sierra Nevada conservancies.

Support our work More ways to help

§ Further reading

§ Sources cited

  • USFWS Sierra Nevada Red Fox Recovery
  • California Department of Fish and Wildlife
  • IUCN Red List 2014