Introduction
The Bat-Eared Fox (Otocyon megalotis) is a captivating species of canine that derives its name from its extraordinarily large ears. The species is native to parts of Africa, having an extensive range that includes Saharan and sub-Saharan regions, extending from Ethiopia and Somalia in the east to Central and South Africa.
Bat-Eared Foxes, contrary to what the name might suggest, are actually not foxes at all but members of the dog family, Canidae. The species has a long, slender body and chest, with a rounded muzzle and relatively short legs, which allows them to take to their environment with ease, whether it be running across the savanna, climbing on rocks, or walking through sand dunes.
Behavior
As previously stated, these elusive animals live across a vast expanse of the African continent, inhabiting areas of semi-desert, savannas, and even arid grasslands. While they may be seen in pairs or family groups in the summer time, they spend the majority of the year living solo and roam vast areas, particularly during the night in search of sustenance.
At dusk and dawn, Bat-Eared Foxes begin their foraging for food, often travelling up to 10km in a night to scavenge for edible items and take advantage of the many diverse food sources available to them; such as insects, small rodents, and plant matter, among other creatures.
Communication
The species has a unique system of communication that includes a combination of sight and sound. Although they are not known to bark, they do make a variety of other vocalizations including shrill whistles, yips, and chattering noises that can resonate over distances. They also use body language and tail positions to convey their feelings; a raised tail often indicates alertness and curiosity, while a lowered tail conveys fear or submission.
Offspring
Bat-Eared Foxes are monogamous mammals, forming permanent pair bonds that last a lifetime. After mating, each pair will form a burrow as a safe and comfortable area to raise their young. Once born, the mother will feed and groom her babies, and the father will protect the family from any predators that may come by.
At three weeks old, the pups become self-mobile and wander in and out of the burrow. The parents will bring food full of the much-needed nutrition, and the rest of the family will drive off any possible threats that come in the form of predators or other foxes in the area.
At eight weeks of age, their ears will already be opened, enabling them to detect sound frequencies that are higher than adult wolves. As they mature, more of their other senses become refined and they begin to develop stamina and speed to traverse the terrain easily.
Conservation
Though recently listed as of “Least Concern” on the IUCN Red List, the species is still vulnerable to pressures of the human induced changes to their habitat and food sources.
Conversion of grasslands to agricultural lands and the increase in livestock grazing are two major factors in the Fall of Bat-Eared Fox populations. Furthermore, hunting and trapping these delicate creatures has led to local population declines as well.
Some conservation efforts have been put in place for the species, such as limiting hunting in certain areas and educating local communities on the importance of maintaining a healthy ecological balance.
Conclusion
The enigmatic Bat-Eared Fox is a species of canine that is little known but worth the time to discover. Small of stature but big of ear, this species makes an iconic face in the African savannas where it roams, foraging for food and grouping into pairs for protection and raising young. It mildly remains vulnerable to the human-induced changes to its surroundings, but with strong conservation efforts, there may be hope to preserve its presence in its native home.