Urban foxes live in close proximity to humans in many cities; understanding their welfare needs and appropriate management approaches supports peaceful coexistence.
Urban foxes face welfare challenges that are distinctly different from rural counterparts. Vehicle collisions are the leading cause of death, with heavily trafficked roads creating consistent mortality zones. Mange causes intense itching, hair loss, and secondary infection, with affected animals visible to the public in distressing states. Habituation to humans from feeding increases exposure to vehicles and reduces natural wariness. Helping injured foxes access wildlife rehabilitation, treating mange through bait delivery programs, and not feeding healthy foxes represent the most welfare-positive approaches.