(ITHACA, NY, March 24, 2023) – Tompkins County Whole Health’s Environmental Health division reports there have been multiple calls regarding a red fox near Newman Golf Course (10 Pier Rd. Ithaca), the Ithaca Wastewater Treatment Plant (525 3rd St., Ithaca), and in the downtown Fall Creek area. Residents have stated the fox is thin and has a “matted coat”, but has also been observed eating and drinking, as well as maintaining distance from people.
Environmental Health (EH) would like to remind the community that this is the time of the year when foxes shed their coats. Information gathered from the sightings suggest that this fox is more likely to be shedding or “blowing” its winter coat, and not suffering from mange. Wild foxes also tend to be lean compared with owned dogs and other domestic animals. Additionally, it is possible the fox is a female that may have already given birth this season and needs to eat enough to support nursing kits. Red foxes often choose dens close to human habitation to protect their kits from coyote predation.
While callers report the fox has been observed to come within 20 feet of residents, additional details shared suggest that the fox has done so only to access water or potential food sources, and it will move off when it feels threatened. Foxes are more likely to walk or trot than run away, as running can trigger a chase response by a perceived threat.
After evaluating current reports, EH believes these sightings are not consistent with a rabid fox. Residents are advised to avoid contact and leave the fox alone. Do not feed, approach, or search for possible dens.
Tompkins County Whole Health reminds everyone to:
- Avoid contact with any unfamiliar cats or dogs and any wild animals.
- All cats, dogs and ferrets must have initial rabies vaccinations administered no later than four months of age. Keep vaccinations current! Learn about our upcoming free clinics in April and May at: https://tompkinscountyny.gov/health/rabies#clinics
- Report the following incidents to Environmental Health at 607-274-6688:
- All animal bites or scratches.
- Any human or pet contact with saliva or other potentially infectious material (brain tissue, spinal tissue, or cerebro-spinal fluid) of wild animals or any animal suspected of having rabies.
- All bat bites, scratches, or any mere skin contact with a bat, or a bat in a room with a child, or sleeping or impaired person.
Further information can be found at: tompkinscountyny.gov/health/eh/rabies
Tompkins County Whole Health (formerly the Tompkins County Health Department): envisioning a future where every person in Tompkins County can achieve wellness. Find us online at TompkinsCountyNY.gov/health, and follow us on Facebook at Facebook.com/TompkinsWholeHealth and on Twitter at @TCWholeHealth. Sign up to receive Whole Health updates or other county announcements via email or text.
- end -
Media Contact: Shannon Alvord, salvord@tompkins-co.org
