Irkutsk fox captured after roaming residential area, taken to zoo
The fox was captured after being seen in the Topkinsky area and taken to the Siberian Zoo.
Specialists from the Irkutsk Region«s service for the protection and use of wildlife objects (Hunting Supervision) have captured a fox that was running around the Topkinsky neighborhood on the outskirts of Irkutsk since at least the end of December. The predator was delivered to the Siberian Zoo, where the animal is being examined.
On January 28, the captured fox was taken to the zoo for veterinary assessment.
City residents repeatedly noticed the wild animal, taking photos and videos. They posted them in neighborhood chats since December, although some residents say it was seen as early as November.
The fox appeared frightened but generally remained calm around people during the capture.
The fox was delivered to the Siberian Zoo today, January 28.
“It can«t be left in the city; foxes are carriers of rabies, a disease deadly to humans. And citizens always want to feed such a marvelous animal. The fox is surprisingly tame and familiar with people,” the institution said.
They also added that the fox was brought under an agreement with the Irkutsk Region government for the rehabilitation, treatment, and temporary holding of wild animals. After quarantine, vaccination, and treatment, they are released back into their natural habitat if they can live independently in the wild thereafter. The release location will be determined by hunting supervision inspectors.
“We hope the fox hasn«t forgotten how to hunt. Any smart animal would prefer an easy life near people, which is why they come into cities. But foxes are exceptional hunters by nature; they have the highest success rate among predators. Now the plan is quarantine, veterinary examination. We»ll wait out the cold months together—and back to the forest. But further away from settlements. The main thing is that this beauty doesn«t bite our guys,” added the Siberian Zoo.
