Gray fox population is declining in Iowa. The DNR wants your help to find out why.
Have you seen a gray fox lately? Iowa DNR is offering a $400 reward for live-caught gray foxes that are in good health.
Iowa DNR is asking trappers for help with a study on Iowa's gray fox population. Vince Evelsizer, furbearer biologist with Iowa DNR, is asking those who happen to catch a gray fox alive to contact him or wildlife technician Dave Hoffman directly.
The two will then be able make arrangements to equip the animal with a neck collar and release it for tracking purposes as part of the research project. Hoffman can be reached at 641-425-0737 and Evelsizer can be contacted at 641-231-1522.
Why is Iowa DNR looking for gray foxes?
“Our gray fox population is down and we’re concerned. At this time, the cause for their population decline is unknown," Iowa DNR said in a news release. "We’re hoping this study will give us some data related to causes of mortality, habitat use, home ranges, etc., that we can begin to learn more about what is going on with this population.”
Why is the gray fox population in Iowa declining?
The gray fox population in Iowa and other Midwestern states has declined over the past 25 years. In Iowa, the population decline correlates with the rise in populations of coyotes, raccoons and bobcats.
Increasing coyote and bobcat populations may affect gray fox populations through competition and predation.
Changes in Iowa’s forest habitat may also contribute to lower gray fox numbers. Mature, even-aged forests don’t support the prey base needed for gray fox.
Can you hunt gray foxes?
Iowa does not consider gray foxes endangered or threatened. The state has a hunting season for red and gray foxes between Nov. 1 and Jan. 31, with no daily bag limits or possession limits. Although, gray fox season may close in the future, according to Iowa DNR.
Hunting is not considered to have a major effect on the fox population. Iowa DNR says online that most fox that are harvested are caught incidentally. During the 2016 to 2017 season, only 19 gray foxes were harvested.
Where can I find a gray fox?
Gray fox can be found statewide, but their core area is eastern and southern Iowa. Usually, they are in in forested habitats, like cedar thickets, deciduous forests, the driftless region, on old farms and overgrown pastures.
Gray fox are smaller than the red fox, with adults weighing up to 12 pounds. They have a seasonal diet feeding on birds and rodents, but eat young grasses in the spring, bugs and berries in the summer and various fruit in the fall.
Victoria Reyna-Rodriguez is a general assignment reporter for the Register. Reach her at vreynarodriguez@registermedia.com or follow her on Twitter @VictoriaReynaR.
This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Iowa DNR needs help from resident trappers to capture gray foxes
