South American grey fox [LC]
Lycalopex griseus
[Scientific name]
Zorro chilla
[Spanish]
Ngürü
[Mapudungun]
Atoj
[Quechua]
The South American grey fox (Lycalopex griseus), also known as the chilla, are a common fox-like species widespread in the plains and mountains on both sides of the Andes, from northern Chile down to Tierra del Fuego. Although omnivorous, they tend toward carnivory and have been considered voracious predators of livestock, poultry, and game. A combination of pelt hunting and persecution aimed at protecting livestock has led to significant local declines in this species. Despite this, their numbers and density remain relatively stable, partly because they are highly adaptable to novel environments, such as urban development.
POPULATION TREND
STABLE
HABITAT & ECOLOGY
Desert • Forest • Grassland • Human modified • Shrubland