Fenec fox

Description

It is the smallest of all species of foxes and even of all canines. It is notable for its extra large ears, which help it to dissipate the heat of the desert, and a pointed muzzle. Its eyes are large and black. The fur is very soft and cream coloured, with whitish lower parts. The paws are covered with fur, including on the pad area to prevent burns when in contact with the hot sand. 

Ethology

They are nocturnal animals, spending most of the day in burrows which they dig themselves to shelter from the desert sun. They obtain most of their water from their food. They are social animals which communicate with a wide variety of sounds. They are monogamous, mating for life. They have litters of 2 to 5 pups after a gestation of approximately 50 days.

Interesting facts

The greatest threats to the fennec fox, apart from the destruction of their habitat, the loss of their prey and diseases are humans, as keeping them as pets and sale of their fur is becoming popular.