Red Fox Caught On Video Exploring Morristown Backyard

MORRISTOWN, NJ — A red fox was caught on camera Wednesday afternoon, exploring a Morristown backyard. In a video sent in by Cindy Flanagan, a fox roams around her backyard, even climbing up the steps to her deck to get a better look around the yard.

"Oh my god he's on the deck!" someone exclaims as the fox takes a step up.

"Oh, he went up on the deck? That's unusual! They don't normally like to get that close," another says.

Red foxes are normal this time of year and nothing to worry about, but residents should avoid approaching them.

Most of the foxes spotted in recent weeks have been red foxes which will allow humans to get pretty close. Still, humans should keep their distance, particularly if the fox shows any strange signs, which could be indicative of rabies.

Some signs of rabies include disorientation, difficulty walking, abnormal behavior in general (unprovoked aggression, overly friendly), excessive salivation (drooling, foaming), partial to full paralysis or coma. If you see a fox that looks like it might be rabid, report it to NJDFW Wildlife Control North - 908-735-8793, or call your local animal control.

Have you seen any interesting or unusual wildlife in the area recently? Send pictures and videos to katie.kausch@patch.com.

Image and video via Cindy Flanagan