University of Galway researchers are inviting the public to take part in a new cross-border Citizen Science survey and record sightings of red foxes in cities.
The aim of the survey is to collect data for conservation planning for the red fox and to tackle potential conflicts between humans and wildlife.
Dr Colin Lawton of University of Galway’s School of Natural Sciences said these Citizen Science projects are a brilliant opportunity for us to @tap into the wealth of knowledge and information that Irish people have about wildlife in their area.
“We would love to hear about any sighting or encounter with a fox, whether it is a regular garden visitor, or a chance meeting late at night!”
Because of the expansion of urban areas in recent years many animals have made them their new home, in particular red foxes. They often take refuge in abandoned buildings in the city or parks, and prey on rodents and discarded food.
“The ecology of urban foxes can often be very different from their rural counterparts, as the proximity of people and relative abundance of food causes them to change their behaviour, but they are the same species. Every record that we get in a citizen science project of this nature will make a difference in understanding urban fox distribution and behaviour and can shed light on the needs of the animals and the potential of cities to provide for them,” said Project Officer Jodie O’Regan.
People can record their sightings of red foxes at https://biodiversityireland.ie/surveys/urban-fox-survey/ and households where foxes visit regularly are encouraged to email [email protected].
More information at @UrbanFoxSurvey on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
