Foxes are clever, adaptable animals that live in many parts of the world—from forests and grasslands to cities and farms. If you’ve ever wondered what do foxes eat, the answer is simple: almost anything they can find.
Fox Diet: What Do Foxes Eat?
| Category | Mostly Eat (Common) | Rarely Eat (Occasional) |
|---|---|---|
| Small Mammals | Rabbits, mice, rats, voles, squirrels | Cats, small dogs, young livestock |
| Birds & Eggs | Ground-nesting birds, pigeons, ducks, chicken eggs | Large birds like geese or turkeys |
| Reptiles & Amphibians | Frogs, lizards, small snakes | Large snakes or turtles |
| Insects | Beetles, grasshoppers, caterpillars, crickets | Wasps, bees, or hard-shelled insects |
| Fish & Aquatic Life | Fish, crabs, shellfish (in coastal areas) | Large fish or deep-water prey |
| Fruits | Apples, grapes, berries, plums, cherries | Tropical fruits (if available near humans) |
| Vegetables & Plants | Corn, carrots, grasses, wild plants | Farm crops (only if close to fields) |
| Carrion | Small dead animals found in the wild | Large carcasses left by bigger predators |
| Human Food | Garbage scraps, pet food, garden leftovers | Processed food (rare but possible) |
Foxes Are Omnivores
Foxes are omnivores, which means they eat both meat and plants. Their diet changes depending on where they live and what food is available. This is why foxes are such good survivors in the wild.
Main Foods Foxes Eat
Here’s what’s usually on a fox’s menu:
- Small mammals – rabbits, mice, rats, and squirrels.
- Birds and eggs – ground-nesting birds and their eggs are easy targets.
- Insects – beetles, grasshoppers, caterpillars, and other bugs.
- Fruits and berries – apples, grapes, blackberries, and wild fruit.
- Fish and frogs – in areas near water.
- Carrion – foxes will scavenge dead animals if they find them.
What Do Foxes Eat in Different Habitats?
| Habitat | Common Foods | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Forests | Rabbits, squirrels, birds, berries | Plenty of wild fruit in summer and fall |
| Grasslands | Rodents, insects, ground birds | Hunt mainly at night |
| Urban areas | Garbage scraps, pet food, rats, pigeons | Adapt well to human areas |
| Near water | Fish, frogs, crabs, waterfowl | Add variety to their diet |
Do Foxes Eat Plants Too?
Yes. Even though they are skilled hunters, foxes enjoy eating fruit, berries, and vegetables. In summer and fall, plants can make up a large part of their diet.
Do Foxes Eat Human Food?
In cities and towns, foxes sometimes eat food scraps, garbage, or pet food left outside. While this helps them survive, it can also bring them into conflict with people.
FAQ
1. Do foxes eat cats?
It’s rare, but possible. Foxes usually prefer smaller prey like rabbits, mice, or birds. Healthy adult cats are usually too large for a fox to attack.
2. Do foxes eat chickens?
Yes, foxes are known to raid chicken coops if they’re not secured. They’re skilled hunters and can take chickens if given the chance.
3. Do foxes eat dogs?
Foxes don’t usually attack dogs. Small puppies might be at risk, but adult dogs are too big for a fox.
4. Do foxes eat fruit?
Yes! Apples, grapes, berries, and other fruits are a regular part of a fox’s diet, especially in summer and autumn.
5. Do foxes eat insects?
Yes, insects like beetles, caterpillars, and grasshoppers are a good protein source for foxes.
6. Do foxes eat fish?
Foxes that live near rivers or coasts will eat fish, crabs, and frogs when they can catch them.
7. Do foxes eat human food?
Yes, especially in cities. Foxes will eat garbage, food scraps, or even pet food left outside.
8. Do foxes eat plants?
Yes. Besides fruit, foxes sometimes nibble on grasses and vegetables to balance their diet.
9. Do foxes eat squirrels?
Yes, foxes hunt squirrels when they’re available, especially in woodland areas.
10. Do foxes eat carrion?
Yes, foxes will scavenge dead animals if food is scarce.
Final Thoughts
So, what do foxes eat? Mostly small animals like rabbits and rodents, but also insects, fruit, and sometimes even leftovers from humans. Their ability to eat such a wide range of food is what makes foxes one of the most adaptable animals in the world.