For the Sake of the Silver Fox
Black Foxes UK works to ensure silver fox welfare by collaborating with organisations and individuals who share our desire to create an informed community that promotes awareness of the issues faced by this complex species.
Our Future Prospects
Fighting Mange Naturally: Hows Foxes Heal Themselves
At Black Foxes UK, we’re constantly looking for ways to protect and promote the welfare of foxes in the UK. One of the major issues foxes face, particularly urban foxes, is mange—a painful and sometimes fatal condition caused by parasitic mites. But what if there was a natural way to help our local wildlife fight off parasites and boost their immunity, all from your own backyard? Enter the fascinating world of zoopharmacognosy.
What is Zoopharmacognosy?
Zoopharmacognosy, or pharmacophagy, is a behaviour in which animals self-medicate by seeking out plants, soil, or other natural substances that help combat illness, parasites, or toxins. You might have seen animals engage in this behaviour without even realizing it—like when dogs eat grass to induce vomiting or birds dust-bathe to repel mites. But this instinct to self-medicate isn’t limited to domestic animals. Wild animals, including foxes, also benefit from nature’s pharmacy.
Can We Help Foxes Heal Themselves?
Mange in foxes is a growing problem, and while it often requires intervention, planting certain types of flora can give foxes the tools they need to manage their health on their own. By introducing canid-safe, parasite-busting plants into your garden or green space, you’re offering local wildlife a chance to self-medicate in a safe and natural way. These plants not only repel pests but also boost immune health—offering a double benefit to foxes and other wildlife that frequent your area.
A New Initiative: Seed Packs for Fox Welfare
We’re excited to announce a potential collaboration on a new initiative aimed at promoting fox welfare - EcoFox Seed Packs, by The Seed House. These packs would contain a carefully curated selection of plants known for their pest-repelling and immune-boosting properties, designed to help foxes and other wildlife self-medicate in the wild.
Here’s a sneak peek at some of the plants:
Immune-Boosting Plants:
- Mugwort
- Dandelion
- Milk Thistle
- Chamomile
- Fennel
- Turmeric
- Chicory
- Rosemary
- and more!
Parasite-Repelling Plants:
- Wormwood
- Rue
- Lavender
- Mint
- Citronella
- Marigolds
- Scented Geraniums
- and more!
By planting these in your garden, you’ll be helping to create a safe, natural space where wildlife can heal themselves, reducing their need for human intervention.
The Next Step: Professional Training for Rescuers
While the seed packs can support foxes on a day-to-day basis, mange sometimes requires direct treatment. That’s why we’re also exploring the idea of offering an online CPD (Continuing Professional Development) course, this would hopefully be in collaboration with professional bodies and organisations.
This course would be designed specifically for wildlife lovers and rescuers, focusing on how to diagnose and treat mange in foxes. This can be expanded at a later date to include CPD and e-learning courses in Wildlife Welfare, advocating for nurturing habitats and educating about the dangers of supporting wildlife incorrectly. With the right knowledge and resources, we can make a real impact on the health of fox populations in the UK, and elsewhere in the world.
How Can You Help?
We need your feedback to make these projects a reality!
- Would you be interested in purchasing Seed Packs to help foxes and other wildlife in your area?
- Do you know anyone—a wildlife rescuer, fox lover, or gardener—who might benefit from this initiative?
- Would you enroll in a CPD course to learn how improve wild fox welfare professionally and ethically?
- Do you want the skills to ensure the highest standard of wild fox welfare available?
Your input is invaluable as we shape the future of fox welfare. Please let us know your thoughts in the comments or by sharing this post with others who might be interested.
Let’s Build Environments Where Foxes Can Thrive!
By joining forces and taking small steps, like planting parasite-repelling flora or educating ourselves on mange treatment, we can make a real difference. Together, we can help our foxes live healthier, happier lives—naturally.
Feel free to leave your thoughts by completing our feedback form or emailing us directly at blackfoxesuk@gmail.com. We’d love to hear your ideas on how we can continue protecting foxes across the UK!
© 2024 Black Foxes UK