After having a pup-free day, I spoke with Jan. When she heard that none of the dogfood was eaten nor had I spied the little one all day, she confirmed my suspicion that most likely the mother fox found the pup on her nocturnal journey. It is highly likely that the pup woke up and wandered away from the den during the day while its mother was asleep. Red foxes (Vulpes Vulpes) are "fox fox" for a reason: they are very intelligent, quick and clever. Paul and I suspect that the pup was just exhibiting its natural curiosity by exploring the area around its den. It seemed to like the spot under the suet because it could eat the little bits that drop when the woodpeckers feed and nearby it could scope the birds.
I must say that I miss seeing the little bugger. I was really worried at first, but now that I'm almost certain that the pup is safe, sound and with her pack, I'd really like to see her (I'm convinced it was a female) again. I might just have to have my own daytime exploratory adventure.
Posted by Elizabeth at April 21, 2004 01:27 PM