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Over 10,000 Foxes Roam the Streets and Gardens of London
London is home to over 10,000 urban foxes, a number that continues to rise as these adaptable creatures thrive in the city’s parks, gardens, and even its streets. While many Londoners admire the sight of a fox trotting through their neighborhood at night, others see them as a growing nuisance, with reports of scavenging, damaged bins, and even rare attacks on pets.
The Urban Fox Boom
Foxes have been part of London’s wildlife for decades, but their numbers have surged due to the abundance of food and shelter available in urban areas. With fewer natural predators and plenty of waste to scavenge, foxes have adapted well to city life. Research suggests that foxes are particularly drawn to areas with large gardens, quiet backstreets, and easy access to food sources such as household bins and discarded takeaway food.
Dr. Phil Baker, a wildlife expert at the University of Reading, explains:
“Foxes are incredibly intelligent and opportunistic. They have learned to navigate urban environments efficiently, using parks and green spaces as their primary habitats while venturing into residential areas for food.”
Divided Opinions
Londoners remain split on the issue of urban foxes. Some residents welcome them as part of the city’s biodiversity, enjoying their presence and even feeding them. Others, however, express frustration over overturned bins, fouling in gardens, and the occasional destruction of property.
In rare cases, foxes have made headlines for attacking small pets, with reports of cats and rabbits falling victim. While attacks on humans are extremely rare, isolated incidents—such as the well-publicized 2010 case of twin baby girls being bitten in their East London home—fuel calls for better management of urban fox populations.
Should Foxes Be Controlled
Unlike other pests, foxes are not officially culled by councils, as they are not considered a public health threat. However, some homeowners take matters into their own hands, hiring pest control services to deter foxes from their gardens. Humane deterrents, such as motion-activated sprinklers or securing bins, are commonly used methods.
The RSPCA advises against culling, arguing that foxes play an important role in controlling rodent populations. Instead, they suggest that coexistence is the best approach, urging residents to secure food waste and avoid feeding foxes directly.
The Future of London’s Foxes
With London’s green spaces providing a perfect habitat, urban foxes are likely here to stay. Experts predict that their population will continue to fluctuate based on food availability and environmental factors. For now, Londoners must decide whether to embrace their nocturnal neighbors or take measures to keep them at bay.
Whether seen as charming urban wildlife or unwelcome intruders, one thing is clear—foxes have made themselves at home in London, and they aren’t leaving anytime soon.
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Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley
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