The fennec fox is a small desert-dwelling fox with large ears. It is well adapted to surviving in the harsh conditions of the desert, with furry feet to protect against the hot sand and long, curved claws for digging. The fennec fox has a thick coat of fur that helps keep it cool in the daytime heat and warm at night. It also has excellent hearing, which helps it to avoid predators and find prey. The fennec fox is a nocturnal animal, meaning it is most active at night. During the day, it rests in its burrow to avoid the heat of the desert sun.
Fennec foxes are native to the Sahara Desert and can be found in Algeria, Egypt, Libya, Mauritania, Morocco, Niger, Senegal, Sudan and Tunisia. They are also found in the Arabian Peninsula. Fennec foxes typically live in pairs or small family groups. They mate for life and usually have litters of two to five kits (baby foxes).
The fennec fox is the smallest member of the canid (dog) family. Adults weigh between 1 and 3 kg (2-6 lb) and measure 40-50 cm (16-20 in) from head to tail. The fennec fox’s coat is pale cream or fawn in color, with a darker line running down the back. Its large ears are black on the outside and light inside. Fennec foxes have black pads on their feet and dark rings around their eyes.
The fennec fox is an omnivore, meaning it eats both plants and animals. Its diet includes insects, small mammals, birds, reptiles, fruits and vegetables. In the wild, fennec foxes typically live for 10-12 years. However, they can live up to 20 years in captivity.