Urban red foxes have adapted to city life across the globe, raising important questions about human-wildlife coexistence and animal welfare in urban landscapes.
Urban foxes face a range of welfare challenges unique to city environments. Road traffic is the leading cause of mortality, with young foxes particularly vulnerable. Mange infestations can spread rapidly through social groups causing severe suffering if untreated. Accidental poisoning from rodenticides is also a significant hazard. However, urban environments can also offer advantages including reduced predation pressure and more reliable food sources, and many urban foxes appear to live well-nourished lives. The ethical management of urban fox populations requires balancing human tolerance with genuine welfare outcomes for the animals.