The Diverse Vocalisations of Foxes: What Noises Do They Make?

Foxes are fascinating creatures, often known for their elusive nature and intriguing vocalisations. Unlike many animals, foxes have a diverse array of sounds they use to communicate, which can sometimes be surprising and even unsettling to those unfamiliar with them. Below is an overview of the most common sounds made by foxes and their purposes.

1. The Scream or Vixen’s Cry

One of the most distinctive and haunting sounds made by foxes is the scream, often referred to as the vixen’s cry. This is a loud, high-pitched sound that is typically heard during the night, particularly in the mating season, which typically occurs in January. Both males and females can produce this sound, but it is more commonly associated with females (vixens). The scream is primarily a mating call, signalling the presence of a female ready to mate or marking territory.

2. The Bark

Foxes also produce a sound akin to a dog’s bark, but it is generally shorter and sharper. This bark is used as an alarm call to warn other foxes of potential danger or to establish territory. It is frequently repeated several times in quick succession, creating a quite distinctive rhythmic pattern.

3. The Gekkering

Another curious sound that foxes make is called gekkering. This is a series of rapid, chattering noises that can sometimes sound like a mixture of barking and growling. Gekkering is often heard during aggressive encounters, such as when foxes are fighting over food or during play among cubs. It can be quite intense and is usually accompanied by other sounds, like growls and snarls.

4. The Howl

Foxes are also known to howl, though this sound is less common than the scream or bark. The howl is a long, mournful sound, somewhat similar to the howl of a wolf, but typically not as deep. It is used primarily to communicate over long distances, often to locate other foxes or to mark territory.

5. The Whine and Whimper

Fox cubs, in particular, are known for their whines and whimpers. These softer sounds are frequently heard when the cubs are seeking attention from their mother, either for food or comfort. Adult foxes might also whine, particularly when they are feeling threatened or are in pain.

6. The Snarl and Growl

Like many other canids, foxes can snarl and growl when they feel threatened or are in the midst of a confrontation. These sounds are usually more guttural and are intended to intimidate potential threats or rivals. The growl is a low, rumbling sound, while the snarl might include the baring of teeth and can be accompanied by a gekkering sound.

7. Purring

Interestingly, foxes also have a softer side. They can make a purring noise, similar to that of a domestic cat, which is typically a sign of contentment. This sound is most often heard when a fox is comfortable and relaxed, possibly when grooming or interacting with its young.

Summary

In conclusion, foxes have a rich vocal repertoire that they use for various forms of communication. The scream is perhaps the most notorious of these sounds, especially because of its eerie nature when heard at night. However, the bark, gekkering, howl, whine, snarl, and even purring all play vital roles in the social dynamics of foxes, from marking territory and signalling danger to fostering bonds between mothers and cubs. Understanding these sounds provides a window into the complex lives of these often misunderstood animals.