Hoary fox [NT]
Lycalopex vetulus
[Scientific name]
Raposa-do-campo
[Portuguese]
Jaguapitanga
[Tupi]
Waptsã wa
[Xavante]
The hoary fox (Lycalopex vetulus) is a small species with a short muzzle, small teeth, a short coat, and slender limbs. They are indigenous to Brazil, with their core range in the cerrado biome of the central Brazilian highlands. Although omnivorous, their diet appears predominantly insectivorous, with ground-dwelling harvester termites (primarily Synthermes spp. and Cornitermes spp.) comprising the bulk of their diet. Both parents play a significant role in the rearing of pups, but it is primarily the females that prepare and maintain dens, sometimes repurposing those of other species.
POPULATION TREND
DECREASING
HABITAT & ECOLOGY
Grassland • Human modified • Savanna