When a conscientious homeowner spotted a strange animal living near their backyard, they immediately became concerned. The fragile, hairless creature was not only difficult to identify, but also clearly in distress. Determined to help, the homeowner devised a plan to capture the animal and ensure its safety, although the task proved more challenging than expected.
Despite his poor health, the elusive animal proved incredibly resourceful and managed to evade capture for weeks. However, rescuers were undeterred and were eventually able to secure his safety.
After capture, the animal was transferred to the Minnesota Wildlife Rehabilitation Center (WRC). It was revealed that this mysterious creature was in fact a fox. The poor creature was emaciated, dehydrated and suffering from a severe case of mange. The dedicated rescuers knew the road to recovery would be long, but were determined to see it through.
“Prior to arriving at WRC, this young red fox endured weeks of cold, hunger, and extreme discomfort from mites burrowing under his skin, leading to severe mange,” the Wildlife Rehabilitation Center of Minnesota wrote on Facebook. “He arrived at our clinic almost completely hairless, with exposed ribs and a broken tail that required partial amputation.”
Once rescuers caught him, they quickly understood why the fox had avoided captivity so well.
“Despite his lack of fur and lack of body fat, he was full of energy,” the center said. “The homeowner even wanted to share a video of him eluding capture, which demonstrated his remarkable intelligence – a trait we noticed right away. He tested the creativity of our staff as we worked to keep him entertained and safe during his stay. His medical care and rehabilitation were generously funded by supporters who responded to our request for help caring for mange-affected foxes. Thank you!”
After more than a month of intensive care, the vivacious fox was finally ready to return to the wild where he belonged.
“After 43 days in our hospital, his recovery was excellent and his beautiful new coat had begun to grow back,” the center reported. “It was clear to everyone that this fox was more than ready to go home and when our veterinarians confirmed that he no longer required supportive care, he was released back into the wild.”
After his release, the fox jumped out of his crate with great excitement and bounded off to his natural habitat. Before disappearing, he paused to look back, seemingly in appreciation of those who had rescued him.
“Our patients can’t thank us verbally, but this fox’s jubilant leap from his kennel and his brief glance back at his caretakers are moments we will always cherish,” the center noted. “On behalf of the fox, THANK YOU for supporting WRC and making such rescues possible!”