Seeing a red fox trot through a suburban backyard is becoming increasingly common. As cities expand, foxes have adapted remarkably well to urban environments. While generally shy and beautiful to watch, a fox family taking up residence under your shed or porch can cause concern for pet owners and parents.

The Urban Den

Foxes usually dig dens to raise their kits (pups). In the wild, this would be a burrow in a hill. In your backyard, the space under a garden shed, deck, or three-season room offers a pre-made roof and excellent protection.

Season: Dens are active in spring and early summer when kits are young.
Signs: Fresh dirt mounds near the shed, leftover prey remains (bones/feathers) in the yard, and a strong musky odor similar to a skunk but distinct.

Are They Dangerous?

Foxes are not typically dangerous to humans. They are small (weighing only 10-15 lbs) and solitary hunters. They flee rather than fight.

Pets: Adult foxes pose very little threat to dogs and cats (cats are formidable opponents). However, small kittens, rabbits, or guinea pigs kept outside are at risk.
Disease: Mange is the most common issue in foxes. A fox with mange (hair loss, scabs) may appear sick or disoriented but is usually not rabid. However, rabies is possible, so never approach them.

Handling a Fox Family

1. The Waiting Game (Harassment)

If the kits are mobile, you can often encourage the mother to move them to a backup den without trapping. This involves “mild harassment”:

Placing ammonia-soaked rags near the den entrance (foxes hate the smell).
Leaving a radio on a talk station near the shed.
Using motion-activated lights. Often, the mother will decide the neighborhood is “too loud” and move the kits overnight.

2. Exclusion

Once the family has moved out (usually by late summer), it is vital to prevent future use. We install a trench-and-screen barrier around the base of the shed or deck. This prevents foxes, groundhogs, and skunks from digging back in next year.

If a fox appears sick, aggressive, or won’t leave, contact HWCS for professional assessment and removal.

Foxes Under the Shed: Managing Urban Fox Dens