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25 May 2013
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Cape fox

Cape fox

Cape fox
Vulpes chama

These are one of the smallest of the African canids, and little is known about them.

Life span
They live for up to 10 years.

Statistics
Body length: 45-61cm, Tail length: 30-40cm, Standing height: 28-33cm, Weight: 3.6-5kg.

Physical description
Cape foxes have a silver grey back, light yellow flanks and underside, and a black tip of the tail.

Distribution
This species inhabits south west Africa, from Southern Zimbabwe to the Cape provinces.

Habitat
They inhabit savannahs and semi-arid regions.

Diet
Cape foxes are omnivorous, feeding on small mammals, insects, carrion and also fruit.

Behaviour
They are found alone or in pairs.

Reproduction
Cape foxes have a gestation period of 51-53 days, after which they give birth to 3-6 cubs, which weigh 50-100g.

Conservation status
Little is known about the occurrence of Cape foxes.





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