There are many urban legends and myths that circulate on the internet, and one of the most popular is the myth that foxes attack humans without provocation. While it is true that foxes are wild animals and should be treated with caution, a fox’s natural response is to flee and not fight.
However, this is not always the case. Remember, it is still capable of inflicting serious harm even if it does not intend to do so. It’s always best to be cautious and avoid approaching foxes, even if they appear to be friendly. While attacks by foxes are relatively rare, there have been a few instances where people have been injured or killed by these animals.
What Triggers a Fox To Attack?
There are a few circumstances that could trigger a fox attack. The fox is naturally cautious of humans and will usually flee when it sees us. However, there are a few things that could cause a fox to become aggressive:
Rabid Foxes
Foxes can get rabies, (according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 7% of cases reported to them are caused by foxes), However, the good news is that in America, the fox strain of rabies almost never infects humans.
In the event that a fox is rabid, it will be disoriented and may not be afraid of humans. It will most likely be violent and may attack without warning, so it is important to be vigilant if you see a fox acting strangely.
The Feeling of Being Trapped
A fox may attack if it feels cornered or trapped. If you are approaching a fox and it does not have an escape route, it may feel threatened and could lash out in an attempt to defend itself. It is important to give the fox some space and not corner it if you see one in the wild.
A Mother’s Instinct
Just like any other animal, a mother fox will attack if she feels her cubs are in danger. If you see a fox with cubs, it is best to give them a wide berth and avoid getting too close. A mother fox can be very protective of her young and may view you as a threat if you get too close.
These are just a few of the reasons why a fox might attack. It is important to remember that even though attacks are rare, they can still happen. If you see a fox, it is best to admire it from a distance and not try to approach it.
What To Do If A Fox Attacks You
If a fox attacks or bites you, remember to stay calm. The best you could do if it is reluctant to let go is to clap your hands, shout loudly, or bang something close to it. They are scared of loud noises and sudden movements so this will help to startle it and make it release you.
After the incident, wash the wound immediately with soap and water for at least 5 minutes then seek medical attention as soon as possible as they might be infected with rabies or other diseases.
Conclusion
Do foxes attack humans? While it is rare, it is still possible for a fox to attack if it feels threatened or cornered. If you see a fox, it is best to admire it from a distance and not try to approach it. They are wild animals after all.
