Residents Urged to Stop Feeding Wild Foxes

Residents are being reminded not to feed or handle wild foxes, as doing so can pose a risk to public safety and may ultimately lead to the animals being euthanized.

In a notice, the Department of Forestry, Agriculture and Lands said feeding foxes — or any wildlife — can create dangerous situations for both people and animals.

Officials acknowledged that some people may feel compelled to help animals that appear hungry, orphaned or injured. However, the department said wild animals should be left undisturbed in their natural habitat.

According to the department, wildlife is best suited to survive on food sources found in the wild. Providing animals with human or pet food can cause them to lose their natural fear of people and human activity, while also potentially harming their health.

The department also warned that wild animals can be unpredictable and may carry diseases that can affect people or pets.