Contributions toward the natural history of two species of fox in northeastern Indiana

Diverse methods have been used to determine mammaliam ageand food habits. Factual accounts of fox habits are rare. The often misunderstood fox is controlled to prevent destruction of domestic animals or disruption of wild game populations. Population age structure and food habits of the red fox (Vulpes fulva) and gray fox (Urocyon cinereoargenteus,) are investigated in the present study as the final part of a two year research program.A sample of hunter and trapper killed foxes was purchased by Ball State University from a fur house in Blackford County, Indiana. Bacula were examined to assign male foxes to an arbitrary age group. Stomach contents were identified to ascertain food habits.The objectives of this study were to: (1) compare results of two aging techniques using fox bacula and skull characteristics; (2) determine dietary patterns of red and gray foxes in northeastern Indiana during December and January, 1969-70; (3) compare food habit results with those obtained by previous investigators.Thesis (M.A.