Wild Foxes- DNR

Q: I live in a wooded subdivision and have discovered a red fox mother with two kits coming out to play at dusk the past few days. Should I contact DNR to trap them and take them somewhere less populated? I do not want them euthanized since they are clearly not rabid and seem quite healthy.

A: It’s tough to decide what you should do. The Georgia Department of Natural Resources doesn’t trap and relocate foxes due to concerns about transmitting diseases. Wildlife control companies can be hired to trap the animals but they are required to euthanize all foxes they catch. Some might argue, but I think you should be sure your pets have their rabies shots and should continue to enjoy the foxes. Your choice to live in a beautiful wooded setting brings with it the responsibility to treat the original inhabitants with respect.