ITHACA, N.Y. (WHCU) – Officials with Tompkins County Whole Health are clarifying information regarding recent fox sightings in Ithaca.

The Environmental Health (EH) division believes the sightings are not consistent with a rabid fox after evaluating reports. EH has received multiple calls about a red fox near Newman Golf Course, the Ithaca Wastewater Treatment Plan, and the downtown Fall creek area. Residents have reported the fox is thin and has a “matted” fur, but has also been observed eating and drinking, as well as maintaining distance from people.

EH says this is the time of year when foxes shed their winter coats, and information gathered from the sightings suggest this is likely the case, and the animal is not suffering from mange. It’s also possible that the fox is female and could have already given birth to a litter of kits and needs to eat and drink enough to nurse. Additionally, red foxes often choose dens close to human habitats to protect their litter from coyote predation.

Additional details gathered in the investigation suggest the fox has only come close to residents to access water and food, and leaves when it feels threatened. Foxes also tend to walk or trot rather than run away to avoid triggering a chase response from its perceived threat.

Though the fox is likely not rabid, residents are always advised to avoid contact with, and leave wild animals alone.