Fox sightings in metro neighborhoods: Is there reason for concern?

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KCTV) - In recent weeks, some residents in metro neighborhoods have spotted foxes near their homes, and it’s raised safety concerns.

We sat down with one local agent who says these creatures are usually more scared of us than we are of them. Amy Keigher is a natural resources agent at Johnson County’s K-State Extension.

Foxes are nocturnal, and Keigher said they’re very common. People don’t usually see them because they’re typically sleeping during the daytime. During overlapping waking hours in the morning or night , humans are most likely to run into them.

“The risk of them actually causing harm to your pets or your children, it’s very low, so just try to keep somewhat of a barrier, and observe them because they’re fascinating,” said Keigher.

Keigher said that due to foxes’ small size, the likelihood of them attacking pets or children are low. She has advice for pet owners who have a fox den in their back yard.

“The best thing to do is to try and create some sort of separation between the foxes there and their den, and your pets,” said Keigher.

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Keigher did say there are a few warning signs to look out for when it comes to these animals. She says if they’re moving slowly or coming up to you, it could be a red flag.

Keigher says that in an urbanized world, it’s important for humans to learn how to coexist with wildlife.

“We’ve created this world that we’re living in here, this urban sprawl, and they’re having to adapt and live in it, and it’s a very dangerous place for them,” said Keigher.

Keigher also addressed the everyday obstacles these small creatures face.

“Most of the time, they can get hit on road, if they don’t get hit on the road, then someone’s wanting to capture them, and either euthanize them or relocate them,” said Keigher. “This was their home, and humans have developed the areas, so they’re having to adapt.”

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Want to learn more about the four-legged friends you see around your neighborhood? The K-State extension office will teach a class on foxes at the at 6 p.m. on September 22.