Sickened Foxes Spotted In Malvern: What Residents Should Do

MALVERN, PA — Malvern Borough is warning residents about foxes carrying mange, a contagious skin condition.

Residents have reported seeing foxes in the borough showing signs of mange, officials said Monday in an advisory.

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Mange is caused by parasitic mites. Sickened foxes have patchy or missing fur and scabby or thickened skin. They may also appear thin or lethargic, officials said.

Mange is common in the local fox population, and foxes with strong immune systems may naturally recover if the infection isn't too severe.

Residents are advised to do the following:

• Don't feed foxes: Feeding draws them closer to homes, encourages repeated visits and can worsen the spread of disease between animals.
• Keep pets away from foxes.
• Secure your trash: Trash, pet food and compost can attract wildlife.
• Don't try to treat, medicate or handle a fox yourself: Possessing or treating wildlife without a permit violates state law, and handling a sick wild animal poses risks for the animal, people and pets.
• What to do instead: If a fox shows signs of distress — such as aggression, approaching people or inability to walk —contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator or the PA Game Commission. Do not approach it.