Enjoy the fox pups this spring, but keep your distance, expert says

Fox pup season on Prince Edward Island can be an exciting time to observe the young animals, but it's important not to get too close while doing so, a wildlife expert says. 

"It is really important to not get too close because they're very protective of their pups," said Maureen Murray, a wildlife disease ecologist. 

Getting too close to a den might prompt a fox family to relocate, which can be stressful for them, Murray said. 

"Imagine moving and you have all these babies and you have to carry them in [your] mouth," she said. 

Murray said there are three things to remember as the pups begin to explore the Island. She said to enjoy them, give them their space and not to feed them. 

Island Morning7:29Keeping fox kits safe on P.E.I.

Fox pup season is here, which means young foxes will be out of their dens and running around. Wildlife disease ecologist Maureen Murray shares tips on how Islanders can enjoy watching them without putting the animals at risk.

A pup's priorities 

Typically born in March, fox pups start to leave the den in May. 

The first order of business is to learn how to eat, Murray said. 

Foxes eat a variety of foods — from berries, plants and worms to small mammals and amphibians. 

"Letting the parents teach their young how to find food naturally is really important," she said.

While foxes are smart, they can get into dangerous situations if they see roads, parking lots or cars as sources of food. 

"You want to make sure that they know that roads are dangerous," she said, noting that getting hit by cars is the most common cause of death for foxes. 

Play time

When fox pups have learned how to eat, the next thing they learn how to do is play. 

"That's one of the most delightful things about young foxes," Murray said. 

Although the scene of pups at play is endearing, it's another example of when space is needed, she said. 

"It's really important that people can enjoy seeing aspects of nature — and there are few things more delightful than seeing young foxes playing — but that's why you've got to keep your distance," she said. 

"If you get too close, they're going to stop, they're going to get scared, they're going to run away." 

New neighbours? 

Foxes sometimes set up their dens in urban or residential areas. If you notice a fox den on your property, Murray said to leave it alone. 

She recommends using binoculars to look at them, noting that they can also be used to get better pictures with a cellphone camera. 

For anyone concerned about foxes on their property, the provincial government's fish and wildlife division can provide specific advice, Murray said. 

Fox droppings may be a less charming element of having a fox for a neighbour. 

When it comes to cleaning up droppings, Murray said it's best to use gloves and a bag, and to wash your hands afterwards.