Fox News: Livingston Residents Express Concerns Over Fox Dens In Their Yards

LIVINGSTON, NJ — There's some Fox news to report in Livingston — and there's no reason to be scared.

Officials in the heavily wooded township have sent out a letter responding to calls from residents about fox dens in their yards.

Two weeks ago, officials told residents that they don't have to worry (or call animal control) just because they see a baby deer in their yards. But now they say they're hearing from people about foxes. READ MORE: Don't Move Newborn Fawn To Mow Your Lawn

"As luck would have it, we've also had calls and seen an uptick in activity and discussion of fox dens in yards," said Judith Heller, the communications coordinator for the town.

In response, the town has posted a release advising people what to do about the dens. Unless the fox appears to have rabies, the town said, there probably isn't cause for concern.

(Rabies, once transmitted, is almost always fatal without quick treatment — so contact a medial professional if bitten.)

The Memo Said:

"Fox cubs (called kits) are frequently born in spring. The little ones will start to carefully venture above ground after about a month, staying nearby. Kits will begin to hunt with their parents at about 10 to 12 weeks of age. Once that begins, it is safe to encourage them to leave the den site.

Numerous reputable online sources, such as the Human Society of the United States and the National Wildlife Federation offer suggestions regarding steps to take to avoid encounters with foxes, how and when to encourage them to abandon the den location, and ways in which to minimize chances of having a fox choose your yard for their den.

Keep Your Yard Clean

Foxes look for areas that can camouflage them from predators, such as under large trees or dense vegetation. A clean property is less appealing to foxes, so keeping your yard neat and uncluttered will discourage foxes from visiting.

Something as simple as installing motion detector lights can also discourage foxes from choosing your yard.

When To Call Animal Control

Unless foxes are clearly showing signs of rabies, which is very rare, there is no reason to contact Animal Control, and there is no reason for concern; foxes prefer to avoid humans.

If there is a fox den in your yard, be sure to make loud noises when going into the yard, keep animals and children away from the area, and maintain a level of noise while outside that will let the foxes know you are still there and not to approach.

Seeing the occasional fox should not cause you any concern. Chances are, the fox is just passing through and will be gone soon enough. Taking a few simple, humane steps that can be found online can help ensure that the fox does not decide to make its den in your yard."

Last week, in responding to residents concerned about deer, the town said, "Livingston has many areas where homes are either in, or adjacent to wooded areas. It's important for us to understand that wildlife is a part of our beautiful town, and our co-existence is necessary."

How To Contact Animal Control And Police

To find out more about the Police Department's Animal Control division, or how to report a non-timely problem to them via the internet, click here. If you have a more urgent matter or your pet is lost, call Livingston Animal Control at 973-992-3000 ext. #3390.

For emergencies or calling after hours or on weekends, call the Police Department at 973-992-3000.