Foxes are often seen as something in between a dog and a cat.
And honestly, I get that! Officially, they’re canines, members of the Canidae family, which makes them relatives of dogs, wolves, and jackals. But the comparison with cats also makes perfect sense, more on that in a future story!
Water Affection
When it comes to water, foxes are once again perfectly in between.
Most cats – except perhaps for the adventurous Maine Coons, Turkish Van, Bengal or the swimming cat Nathan – can’t stand getting wet, while many dogs adore splashing around. A fox doesn’t really fear water, nor do they particularly enjoy it. They won’t go swimming for fun, but neither will they panic when they get wet.
They’re excellent swimmers, as most animals are (humans being the unfortunate exception). I often find foxes near the water’s edge, a sight that inspired my Fox Reflections series.
But maybe they’re just there for a quick drink, who knows? One thing is certain: foxes rarely jump into the water voluntarily. They get wet out of necessity, not pleasure.
The Swimming Fox Memory
Foxes are well-known opportunists, and that also applies to their relationship with water.
If there’s something tempting or important on the other side and the detour is long, they’ll sometimes go for a quick and pragmatic swim. And when the summer heat becomes unbearable, they might secretly enjoy the cool relief.
Still, swimming foxes are rare.
During the hundreds of encounters I’ve had with them, I’ve only seen a fox swim three, maybe four times. And precisely because it’s so unusual, it’s always unforgettable. A scene etched both in my memory and on my memory card.
For more fox stories, see my new 31 Fox facts
For more Fox photos, check my Fine-art Fox Gallery
Your work is exceptional and informative.
We have had several individual foxes frequent our primitive cabin in the mountains outside Darby Montana over the past ten years.
Their presence has peaked our curiosity about these beautiful creatures, so your work has increased our curiosity, appreciation and understanding of fox.
Thanks for sharing your art, passion and knowledge.
Glad to read my article added to your knowledge and interest…. And how wonderful you have these fox visitors! Enjoy their company and thanks so much for the very kind comment!
Roeselien