What a healthy Fox Cub might look like
- Be out during the day playing and exploring their territory
- Appear to be alone, even though mother is likely nearby
- Look healthy and alert
- Show no signs of movement or mobility issues
What to do if you find a fox cub
A fox cub shouldn’t be alone for an extended period. If you find a cub monitor it for a short time and assess the situation.
Consider the location carefully – for example a fox cub should not be running frantically along busy streets.
If in doubt, contact USPCA and provide clear photos or video footage of the animal.
If you find a fox cub in immediate danger (e.g., Near a Road)
- Call 101 immediately to contact the PSNI and report a potential road hazard
- Use the free what3words app to provide exact location
- Contact the USPCA and share this information with them
If a dog is threatening a fox cub:
Take your pet inside temporarily and keep a safe distance. The fox cub will usually move on as it continues exploring its surroundings.
When a Fox Cub may need some help:
Look out for the following signs:
- Obvious injury to legs or body
- Open wounds or visible blood
- Not moving when approached
- Signs of flystrike (which may look like small grains of rice on the animal)
- Seizure-like symptoms
- Loss of fur caused by mange, a skin condition resulting from parasitic mites that can lead to hair loss and irritation
When in doubt, contact us
Call our Wildlife Team on 028 3025 1000 if you notice any of the signs above, or if you are unsure about the next steps.
Images supplied by Leanne Campbell @lcwildlife