Fennec Fox
WINKY is a Fennec fox who came to us as an owner surrender because she was illegally owned in California. Her previous owners traveled too much and were unable to give her the care and attention she needed.
When Winky arrived, she wasn’t well-socialized, so earning her trust took time and patience. But now, she has truly settled in—and even found love! She lives with her boyfriend, Dobby, and we couldn’t be happier to see them together. As highly social animals, Fennec foxes thrive in companionship, making Winky’s bond with Dobby extra special.
Of course, every relationship has its dynamic, and in this one, Winky is definitely the boss! She keeps Dobby on his toes, though he’s not afraid to speak up when she pushes things too far. Their playful antics are a joy to watch as they chase each other up and down the two levels of their enclosure. Like true desert foxes, they love to bury treats for later—though Winky has been caught raiding Dobby’s stash while he naps. Luckily, he adores her, so he doesn’t seem to mind too much!
Winky’s journey from a misunderstood pet to a thriving sanctuary resident is a perfect reminder of why wild animals belong in the wild—not in homes.
ORDER: Carnivora
FAMILY: Canidae
GENUS: Vulpes
SPECIES: Zerda
Fennec foxes are the smallest canine in the wild. They make dens and sleep during the hottest part of the day in Sub- Saharan Africa. They are crepuscular or active at dawn and dusk. Most foxes are solitary but not the fennecs, they love family and live in groups of 10 or more. Due to the temperature in which they live they have several very important adaptations. They have a very thick coat and tail for cold desert night and furry feet to walk on burning hot sand during the day. This would be only for emergencies though like a snake in their den, as normally they would be sleeping during the hottest part. They have incredible hearing. They can hear a watch tick from 50 feet away. This helps them find their prey when it is underground. They are lightening fast as their food can be dangerous like scorpions and tarantulas. When catching a scorpion they bite off the stinger and then eat it like a potato chip. They are monogamous and after a 50 day gestation period will have 2 to 4 kits in March or April. They reach sexual maturity at about 10 months of age.
Threats
Road construction and human encroachment, fur trade and pet trade.
Conservation Status
LC - Least Concern