Vulpes vulpes is the scientific name of the species known colloquially as the common fox or red fox.
A fox is a mammalian animal that belongs to the group of canids . Due to the characteristics of these specimens, the term is also used symbolically to refer to certain people.
Foxes are part of the vulpine tribe. More than 20 species of foxes are recognized, which are distributed in multiple regions throughout the planet. The common fox , also called red fox , is the species whose scientific name is Vulpes vulpes .
General characteristics of foxes
Beyond the differences that different species present, common characteristics can be listed. Generally, its body has a length that does not exceed one meter.
With ears that end in points, foxes have a long snout and thick fur, especially on the tail. Of nocturnal habits, they stand out for their hunting ability and their intelligence in a broad sense.
When in the wild, foxes typically live about seven years. In captivity, however, it is common for them to exceed ten years. Although they are hunted by humans , the conservation of most species is not at risk.
Foxes make up the group of canids.
The Vulpes vulpes
The common fox or red fox is present in areas of Europe , Asia , Africa , Australia and North America . In adulthood it weighs between 3 and 8 kilograms, with males larger and heavier than females due to sexual dimorphism.
These animals have a reddish color, although the tip of the tail and their belly are white. Regarding their long tail, it should be noted that they use it to keep away insects , protect themselves from the sun, establish communication, maintain balance and even as a pillow.
It is also interesting to mention that their vision is not very good: at night, they guide themselves through smell and hearing . Another important trait of the common fox is that it can exceed 70 kilometers per hour when running.
The fox and the man
Due to the variety of techniques that foxes use to catch their prey, man has always appreciated their skills. This assessment led to the development of various symbolisms and cultural manifestations that are related to these animals.
In medieval times, the fox was linked to the devil . Some people , in this framework, considered him as a messenger of the devil.
This negative perception also appears when someone devious or sneaky is mentioned as a fox. For example : “Be careful with Juan, he is a fox who will not hesitate to attack you from behind” , “Don't be a fox and tell me what you talked about with the boss during my absence” , “You are too good, I should be more of a fox” .
When the term is used in the feminine form ( zorra ), it refers disparagingly to a prostitute or a woman to whom behaviors typical of a sex worker are attributed: “I don't want that slut to get close to my boyfriend,” “María's slut” “She cheated on me with my best friend,” “That girl has no talent, she became famous only because she is a bitch.”
Beyond these issues, admiration for the beauty of the fox causes the specimens to be hunted to use their skin to make clothing and accessories. They are also killed if they attack livestock or poultry.