Don't Fear The Foxes, Point Pleasant Police Tell Residents

POINT PLEASANT, NJ — Point Pleasant police issued reminders to residents about foxes on Thursday, in response to increased reports about the animals being seen in the area.

"As many of you are aware, there has been an increase in the fox population in our area and surrounding towns," police said in a post on the department's Facebook page.

"There has been a perception that foxes pose a danger to humans. Healthy foxes pose virtually no danger to humans," the police department post said.

Police said that while people are concerned about foxes, "it is unlawful to intentionally harm a living animal (NJSA 4:22-17)," noting that the presence of people is often enough to deter foxes from hanging around.

While they often live near homes and communities, in yards, parks and especially areas near "suitable, undeveloped habitat," they can be deterred by being scared off with loud noises.

"Foxes can grow accustomed to human activity but are seldom aggressive toward people," the police department said. Foxes will prey on small

If a fox has its den on your property, it can be scared off with unnatural or natural odors, such as coyote urine, which can be purchased online.

"Animals that appear sick or that are acting abnormally should be avoided. The police department or the NJ Fish and Wildlife DEP Hotline (877-WARN-DEP) should be contacted if assistance is needed with a diseased animal," police said.