We have constructed 11 holding pens on the Bad River Ranches capable of keeping fox pairs through the winter. These pens will also serve to hold foxes for a 14-day quarantine period prior to fall releases. This quarantine period is necessary to make sure all the imported foxes are healthy and free of diseases. Pens are constructed of chain link panels surrounded by a sturdy perimeter fence to keep other animals (i.e. bison and coyotes) away from pens and foxes. Research studies indicate that holding foxes for a brief period reduces their natural instinct to return home. Also, by pairing and holding foxes during their breeding season (January - March) we may see pups born in captivity. These families would then be released early next summer when the pups are old enough to hunt and fend for themselves.
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