Residents of Durham County's Carolina Arbors neighborhood are on alert after multiple reports of fox encounters, including bites and scratches to both pets and people, were confirmed by the Sheriff's Office. The Durham County Sheriff’s Office Animal Services division, in collaboration with NC Wildlife Resources, has been investigating these incidents over the past two days.
According to the Durham County Sheriff’s Office, the nature of the fox's health remains a mystery, leaving the local community concerned about the possibility of rabies. People who have come in contact with the animal have been advised to seek medical treatment, and the Department of Public Health is now involved. For those coming across a fox, officials are recommending a hands-off approach—don't try to trap it or cause it harm.
To discourage these wild visitors, residents should take proactive measures like securing trash, feeding pets indoors, and eliminating other potential food sources, a sentiment repeated by the Sheriff’s Office. The Sheriff’s Office advises that community-wide efforts are fundamental to managing the situation effectively—having mentioned not feeding foxes directly and avoiding leaving food sources like bird feeders and fallen fruit exposed.
In case of a problematic fox encounter, the advice is to contact local animal control at 919-560-0900. It should be noted that it's illegal to relocate foxes in North Carolina, due to disease spread concerns and low survival chances, the Durham County Sheriff’s Office reported. If property damage is a concern, they suggest reaching out to a Wildlife Damage Control Agent. And for those interested in more permanent solutions, albeit within the legal framework, the Sheriff’s Office mentions that hunting and trapping may be allowed within specific seasons and with appropriate licensing.
