Swift Fox (Vulpes velox)
Foxes are listed as threatened in South Dakota, therefore we will work to restore foxes to central South Dakota by reintroducing wild foxes in 2002. This reintroduction will be the first part of our effort to restore a native prairie system. We assessed habitat, predator, and prey populations to determine the feasibility of restoring foxes to the area. That assessment indicates that the area can support 200 foxes. This is a cooperative project with South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks, Lower Brule Sioux Tribe, Ft. Pierre National Grasslands, and Badlands National Park.

Swift Fox Restoration News
Foxes and their Decline in South Dakota
Is Restoration Possible?
Educational Meetings a Success
Animal Industry Considers Permit
Quarantine and Holding Pens
Captive-bred Foxes for Release
Swift Fox Facts

More about the swift fox and kit fox online:
US Fish and Wildlife Service - Mountain Prairie Region - Swift Fox
USGS Northern Prairie Wildlife Research - Rare Species of South Dakota
Defenders.org - Rescuing The Swift Fox
Canid Specialist Group - Kit Fox and Swift Fox

Estimated maximum range of swift foxes on the North American Continent during the 19th century and today (Based on 1997 data).