Fennec Fox

The Fennec Fox (Vulpes zerda) is a small crepuscular fox native to the deserts of North Africa, ranging from Western Sahara to the Sinai Peninsula. It's very huge ears, which are used to vent heat and listen for underground prey, are its most distinguishing characteristic. The smallest type of fox is the fennec. Its coat, ears, and kidney functions have evolved to fit the hot, dry climate of the desert. It primarily consumes birds, small animals, and insects. The fennec has a life span of up to 14 years in captivity and roughly 10 years in the wild.

The Verreaux's eagle-owl, jackals, and other large mammals are its principal predators. Families of fennecs create burrows in the sand for protection and living. These burrows, which may be as large as 120 m2 (1,292 sq ft), are next to those of neighboring families. The frequency of sightings, which is approximated in the absence of precise population data, shows that the fennec is not currently in danger of going extinct. Animals kept in captivity are the only source of information on social relationships. The native peoples of North Africa appreciate the fennec's fur, and in some parts of the world, it is regarded as an exotic pet.