We have a pair of young foxes in the neighborhood, they are very thing almost emaciated. One is very active and seems to be trying to aid it's sibling, who is lethargic, and barely reacted when I approached. They sleep on a neighbors wooden swing set, above the ground. I have photos...We are in Lake County, I have been unable to find anyone who can help who doesn't want me to pay them. I don't want anyone to harm them.

Please e-mail me the photos. lasimmon@illinois.edu

I emailed pix of a young red fox as well. Seen twice on Highway 45, across from the CLC tree massacre, hanging out on the side of the road at rush hour. Being that they are nocturnal, I don't know whether it's sick, or just starving, and looking to be relocated.

Thank you for sending in the photo. It appears that the construction has reduced the natural vegetation in the area. This would decrease the available food supply, and cause stress to animals displaced by the construction. So I am not surprised that the fox is being seen during the day. It may take longer for it to find food, and it may also be looking for a new place to den. The fox will have to learn to survive in this altered environment. Fortunately, foxes are quite able to live in urban environments. So as long as it doesn't get hit by a vehicle, it is likely to do fine. Relocation of the fox is not a viable option. Other suitable habitats will already have established populations of foxes. Introducing the fox to a new location would cause it to have to fight for territory, would potentially expose the local population of foxes to any diseases or parasites the relocated fox was carrying, and finally, many relocated animals are killed by vehicles or larger predators as they try to make their way back to their original territory. It is best for the fox to stay in its home territory. If you have any questions, please feel free to e-mail me.

Thank you for the reply!