Foxes are everywhere—darting through forests, slipping into suburban backyards, and sometimes even trotting through city streets like they own the place. But some states have way more of these clever creatures than others.
From wide-open plains to dense woodlands, certain places in America have become fox hotspots. Whether it’s because of plentiful food, ideal habitats, or just a perfect mix of both, these states have more foxes than you’d ever expect.
And no, it’s not just the rural wilderness you’d imagine. Some of these states will absolutely shock you—foxes have a way of showing up where you least expect them.
So, which states are home to the most of these sly, bushy-tailed residents? Let’s count them down and see where foxes have truly taken over!
California
California hosts a significant population of foxes, particularly the red and gray species. The state’s diverse habitats, from coastal areas to dense forests, provide ample opportunities for these creatures to thrive. Red foxes are commonly seen in suburban areas, adapting well to human presence. Gray foxes, on the other hand, prefer more secluded, forested regions where they can climb trees to escape predators. California’s warm climate and varied ecosystems ensure that food sources remain abundant, supporting robust fox populations. Conservation efforts continue to protect these animals and their habitats, ensuring they remain a quintessential part of California’s wildlife.
Florida
In Florida, foxes are a common sight, with gray foxes being particularly prevalent. These agile animals thrive in the state’s warm, humid environment, often seen near swamps and wooded areas. Florida’s ecosystem provides a rich supply of food, from small mammals to fruits, supporting healthy fox populations. Unlike other regions, Florida’s foxes have adapted to the presence of alligators, demonstrating their remarkable survival instincts. The state’s conservation programs have played a crucial role in maintaining the balance between wildlife and human development, ensuring that foxes continue to flourish in their natural habitats.
Texas
Texas is home to both red and gray foxes, flourishing in its expansive landscapes. The state’s wide-open plains and forested areas offer ideal environments for these cunning creatures. Red foxes are often spotted in rural regions, where they hunt and play. Gray foxes, adept at climbing, prefer the cover of forests. Texas’s climate, with its hot summers and mild winters, ensures that food is plentiful throughout the year. Wildlife conservation efforts focus on preserving these habitats to maintain the state’s rich biodiversity, making Texas a notable state for fox enthusiasts.
New York
New York boasts a diverse range of habitats that support significant fox populations. The state’s rural and suburban areas provide perfect settings for red foxes, while gray foxes are often found in the more densely wooded regions. New York’s changing seasons offer a unique environment for foxes to adapt and thrive, particularly during the fall when food is abundant. Urban development in some areas has challenged these animals, but conservation initiatives aim to preserve their natural habitats. The beauty of a fox against the backdrop of New York’s autumn leaves is a sight to behold.
Virginia
Virginia’s varied landscapes, from the Appalachian Mountains to coastal plains, support a thriving fox population. Gray foxes, in particular, are well-adapted to the state’s lush forests and rolling hills. These agile creatures are often seen near farmland, where they find plenty of food. Virginia’s mild climate and ample natural cover make it a haven for foxes, allowing them to hunt and roam freely. Conservation efforts in Virginia focus on habitat preservation, ensuring these animals have the space they need to flourish. The state’s dedication to wildlife protection makes it an ideal environment for foxes.
Oregon
Oregon’s dense forests and mountainous regions are perfect habitats for foxes. The state is home to both red and gray fox species, thriving in the cool, misty climate. Red foxes are more common in suburban areas, while gray foxes prefer the solitude of the woods. Oregon’s rich biodiversity provides ample food sources, from small mammals to birds, supporting healthy fox populations. Conservation programs aim to balance human development with wildlife preservation, allowing foxes to continue roaming freely. The sight of a fox in Oregon’s misty forests is a testament to the state’s natural beauty.
Michigan
In Michigan, foxes are a familiar presence, especially the red variety. The state’s cold winters and dense forests create an ideal environment for these resilient animals. Red foxes are adept at hunting in the snow, their fur providing excellent insulation against the cold. Gray foxes also inhabit Michigan, often found in the state’s more secluded regions. Michigan’s commitment to wildlife conservation ensures that foxes have the resources they need to survive and thrive year-round. The beauty of a fox in the midst of a Michigan winter, against a backdrop of snow-covered trees, is truly captivating.
Montana
Montana’s vast, open landscapes are a paradise for foxes, particularly the gray species. These adaptable animals thrive in the state’s rugged terrain, from sweeping plains to forested mountains. Gray foxes are often seen near rocky outcrops, where they find shelter and food. Montana’s climate, with its cold winters and warm summers, supports diverse wildlife, including substantial fox populations. Conservation efforts focus on protecting these habitats from human encroachment, ensuring that foxes continue to roam freely. The sight of a gray fox against Montana’s expansive skies and majestic mountains is a testament to the state’s wild beauty.
Colorado
Colorado’s stunning landscapes, from high mountains to expansive valleys, provide excellent habitats for foxes. Red foxes are particularly common, thriving in both rural and urban settings. The state’s cold climate and diverse ecosystems offer abundant food sources, from small mammals to birds. Colorado’s wildlife conservation efforts focus on preserving these natural environments, ensuring that foxes can continue to flourish. The sight of a red fox against the backdrop of Colorado’s majestic, snow-capped peaks is a memorable experience for nature enthusiasts. The state’s commitment to preserving its wildlife makes it a refuge for foxes.
North Carolina
North Carolina’s deciduous forests and rolling hills are home to thriving fox populations. Gray foxes are particularly prevalent, often seen trotting through wooded areas in search of food. The state’s mild climate and rich biodiversity provide ideal conditions for foxes to thrive. Conservation programs focus on managing habitats and supporting wildlife diversity, ensuring that foxes have the resources they need. The sight of a gray fox surrounded by North Carolina’s vibrant autumn foliage is a testament to the state’s natural beauty. These efforts make North Carolina a haven for these engaging creatures.
Maine
Maine’s dense woodlands and rugged coastlines provide impeccable habitats for foxes, especially the red variety. These animals are a common sight, often spotted in the state’s vast forests and near coastal areas. The cool, misty climate of Maine, combined with its plentiful food sources, supports healthy fox populations. Conservation efforts in the state prioritize habitat preservation and wildlife protection, ensuring that these animals can continue to thrive. The image of a red fox against the backdrop of Maine’s serene, misty forests reflects the state’s commitment to preserving its natural beauty and wildlife.
Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania’s extensive forests and rolling countryside are perfect for foxes. The state hosts both red and gray species, thriving in its diverse landscapes. Gray foxes are often seen in dense, forested areas, while red foxes adapt well to the countryside. Pennsylvania’s moderate climate and rich biodiversity offer plentiful food sources, ensuring that fox populations remain robust. Conservation initiatives focus on maintaining these natural environments, allowing foxes to flourish. The sight of a fox in Pennsylvania’s lush, green forests, surrounded by ferns and wildflowers, highlights the state’s dedication to wildlife preservation.
Ohio
Ohio’s rural and suburban areas provide prime habitats for foxes, particularly the red species. These adaptable animals are often seen near farms and open fields, where they hunt and play. Ohio’s temperate climate and rich agricultural landscapes support a healthy fox population, offering abundant food sources year-round. Conservation efforts in Ohio emphasize habitat protection and wildlife management, ensuring that foxes can thrive alongside human development. The image of a red fox near Ohio’s golden fields is a charming depiction of the state’s harmonious coexistence with nature, reflecting its commitment to wildlife preservation.
Georgia
Georgia’s warm climate and lush woodlands provide excellent habitats for foxes, especially the gray variety. These agile animals are commonly seen in the state’s forests, where they find food and shelter. Georgia’s rich biodiversity and mild winters support thriving fox populations, allowing them to hunt and play freely. Conservation programs focus on preserving these natural environments, ensuring that foxes continue to flourish. The sight of a gray fox peeking around a mossy tree in Georgia’s woodlands is a delightful representation of the state’s commitment to wildlife protection. These efforts maintain Georgia as a sanctuary for foxes.
Tennessee
Tennessee’s diverse landscapes, from mountains to forests, provide ideal habitats for foxes. Red foxes are particularly prevalent, thriving in the state’s wooded regions. The mild climate and abundant food sources, from small mammals to fruits, support healthy fox populations. Tennessee’s conservation initiatives focus on habitat preservation, ensuring that these animals have the space they need to flourish. The sight of a red fox amidst Tennessee’s sun-dappled forests is a charming illustration of the state’s natural beauty. These efforts make Tennessee a welcoming environment for foxes and other wildlife.
Missouri
Missouri’s vast meadows and forests provide excellent habitats for foxes, particularly the gray species. These adaptable animals thrive in the state’s diverse landscapes, often seen near meadows and farmland. Missouri’s temperate climate and rich biodiversity offer plentiful food sources, ensuring that fox populations remain robust. Conservation efforts in Missouri focus on protecting these natural environments, allowing foxes to roam freely. The image of a gray fox in a wildflower-filled Missouri meadow, with a distant barn, reflects the state’s commitment to preserving its wildlife. These efforts maintain Missouri as a haven for foxes.
Wisconsin
Wisconsin’s cold winters and dense forests are perfect for foxes, especially the red variety. These resilient animals thrive in the state’s snowy landscapes, where their thick fur provides excellent insulation. Red foxes are commonly seen in Wisconsin’s rural areas, hunting and playing in the snow. The state’s commitment to wildlife conservation ensures that foxes have the resources they need to survive and thrive. The image of a red fox against the backdrop of Wisconsin’s snow-covered woodlands and frozen lakes is a captivating representation of the state’s dedication to wildlife preservation. These efforts make Wisconsin a refuge for foxes.