Fox Cub Fails to Catch Prey in Pre-Ural Steppe

The fluffy fox cub tried hard to catch a small animal, but it was quicker.

Feb 7, 2026

The fox cub«s disappointed expression was captured as it failed to catch its prey.
Source:
Dmitry Nemaltsev / VKontakte

Senior state inspector of the Pre-Ural Steppe section of the Orenburg Nature Reserve, Dmitry Nemaltsev, described how the local fauna lives in January and endures the cold.

The Pre-Ural Steppe is shown bathed in the light of the setting sun.
Source:
Dmitry Nemaltsev / VKontakte

According to the inspector, frosts and strong winds do not frighten the steppe inhabitants. But if it«s -25 degrees Celsius (-13°F) and wind of 30 meters per second for four days straight, it becomes worrisome for the animals.

When the bad weather finally cleared, allowing for calm filming, a fox cub appeared in the shot. The reddish cub energetically chased a small animal but failed to catch it. Inspectors also managed to capture its frustrated look after the failure.

Previously, we reported that, despite the severe frosts and blizzards, Przewalski«s horses in the Pre-Ural Steppe demonstrate resilience. During a snowstorm, they may huddle in a tight group, and at other times they feel quite well, and even engage in disputes.

Also, 56.RU wrote about which animals in the Orenburg Nature Reserve visit inspectors most often. Mainly, these are hares, weasels, foxes, partridges, and Przewalski«s horses.