Buying a melanistic fox as a pet is possible, but it comes with some important considerations. Melanistic foxes, also known as “silver foxes,” have a genetic mutation that causes their fur to appear mostly black or very dark brown. They are a color variant of the red fox species. While they may look intriguing, melanistic foxes require specialized care and housing compared to more traditional pets. Understanding their needs and legal restrictions can help determine if a melanistic fox is the right pet for you.
Are melanistic foxes legal to own?
The legality of owning a melanistic fox depends on where you live. In the United States, laws regarding exotic pets vary by state. Some states ban the ownership of foxes completely, while others require permits or licenses. Even in states that allow private fox ownership, there are often restrictions on importing foxes from out of state. And federal regulations may apply if you wish to purchase a fox bred in captivity rather than one caught in the wild.
| State | Fox Ownership Laws |
|---|---|
| Alabama | Illegal to own foxes |
| Alaska | Permit required |
| Arizona | No laws banning ownership |
| Arkansas | Permit required |
| California | Illegal to own foxes |
| Colorado | No laws banning ownership |
| Connecticut | Permit required |
| Delaware | Permit required |
Outside of the United States, laws also vary widely depending on the country. Be sure to research national and local exotic pet laws before obtaining any fox. Some areas, like the UK, have an outright ban on keeping foxes as pets.
Where can you find melanistic foxes for sale?
Finding reputable melanistic fox breeders can be challenging. These foxes are still considered exotic pets that are not widely bred compared to dogs or cats. There are a few main options for locating melanistic foxes for sale:
- Specialized exotic mammal breeders – Some breeders focus exclusively on producing tame, human-socialized melanistic foxes from captive bred lines.
- Fur farms – Melanistic fox pelts are prized in the fur trade. Some fur farms will sell live melanistic foxes as pets.
- Animal auctions – Exotic animal auctions sometimes have melanistic foxes, often rescued from fur farms.
- Classified ads – Sites like Craigslist may have listings for melanistic foxes from private breeders.
- Animal shelters – Adoptable rescued foxes in need of rehoming sometimes include melanistics.
Vet any source carefully to ensure the foxes come from reputable breeders with experience socializing these wild animals. Never obtain a fox caught from the wild. Work with your state’s Fish and Wildlife department to locate licensed breeders.
What do melanistic foxes cost?
The price of a pet melanistic fox typically ranges from $400-$2,500. The cost depends on factors like:
- Breeder’s reputation and fox lineage – More experienced breeders tend to charge higher prices for foxes from proven bloodlines. These breeders often put more time into properly socializing kits.
- Fox’s age – Younger fox kits or pups usually cost less than older juvenile or adult foxes.
- Coat color variation – Completely black melanistic foxes are rarer and more desirable than foxes with some red fur mixed in. Their price tag reflects their darker coats.
- Geography – Prices tend to be higher in parts of the country where fox ownership is rarer and more regulated.
- Gender – Some breeders charge slightly more for female foxes than males.
- Genetic background – Melanistics from lines purposefully bred to be pets for generations tend to be more expensive than those from fur farms.
Be extremely cautious of any ads offering melanistic foxes well below this typical price range, as they are likely unlicensed breeders or illegal wild-caught foxes.
Are melanistic foxes suitable pets?
While their striking coats appeal to many exotic pet lovers, melanistic foxes have some drawbacks as companion pets. Consider the following before choosing a fox:
- Foxes are partly wild animals with strong instincts. They require plenty of specialized care and training to handle properly.
- Foxes are extremely energetic and require lots of secure space to run and play.
- They tend to be skittish and aloof compared to domesticated pets like dogs.
- Foxes are vociferous with lots of vocalizations like screeches, barks, yips, and howls.
- Their natural musk and urine odors can be overwhelming, especially during mating seasons.
- Foxes are prone to digging and chewing behaviors that can damage household items.
- They require an exotic pet veterinarian to care for their health needs.
- Owning a fox may be illegal depending on local laws and permit requirements.
Melanistic foxes make better pets for experienced exotic animal owners with ample time and housing to meet their complex needs. First-time pet owners or those with limited space may find foxes to be challenging pets.
Proper housing for melanistic foxes
Foxes cannot thrive in small cages or crates. At minimum, each pet fox needs:
- An outdoor enclosure measuring 15′ x 15′ x 6′ for one fox, plus extra space for any additional foxes. The enclosure should have a protective top or roof.
- A sturdy fox-proof shelter within the enclosure large enough for sleeping/hiding. The shelter should be raised off the ground and insulated.
- Dig barrier fencing at least 5′ deep around the enclosure’s base to prevent escape tunnels.
- An indoor enclosure at least 6′ x 6′ x 6′ tall for sleeping and play. Access between indoor and outdoor spaces is ideal.
- Lots of enrichment like logs, tunnels, scratching posts, and climbing platforms.
Foxes will quickly become bored and destructive in spaces that are too small. Rural areas outside of neighborhoods or homeowner’s associations offer the best locations for properly housing foxes.
Dietary needs of melanistic foxes
Feeding pet foxes requires providing:
- High-quality raw meat or commercial carnivore diet formulated just for foxes.
- Whole prey items like chicks, rabbits, rats, and mice to allow natural feeding behaviors.
- Fruits, vegetables, eggs, and other supplements 2-3 times per week for variety.
- Clean, fresh water at all times.
Food should be provided in puzzle toys or scattered to stimulate natural foraging. Owners must closely monitor their fox’s body condition and adjust food amounts and diet as needed. Obesity is a common health issue.
Caring for melanistic foxes
Foxes have some unique care needs:
- Fresh enclosures with daily waste removal to prevent disease and odor buildup.
- Routine brushing and bathing to manage shedding and keep their coat clean.
- Trim nails every 1-2 weeks to prevent overgrowth and injury.
- Year-round flea/tick and heartworm prevention medication.
- Lots of exercise and play time in large outdoor spaces.
- Environmental enrichment to keep their agile minds engaged.
- Monthly health exams checking for weight issues, skin problems, or dental disease.
Working closely with an exotic pet veterinarian provides the best care for your fox’s needs. Be prepared to invest substantial time and money into proper fox husbandry.
Are melanistic foxes legal to own?
The legality of owning a melanistic fox depends on where you live. In the United States, laws regarding exotic pets vary by state. Some states ban the ownership of foxes completely, while others require permits or licenses. Even in states that allow private fox ownership, there are often restrictions on importing foxes from out of state. And federal regulations may apply if you wish to purchase a fox bred in captivity rather than one caught in the wild.
Outside of the United States, laws also vary widely depending on the country. Be sure to research national and local exotic pet laws before obtaining any fox. Some areas, like the UK, have an outright ban on keeping foxes as pets.
Finding a reputable melanistic fox breeder
Locating a responsible, humane melanistic fox breeder is key to getting a tame, handleable fox. Warning signs of bad breeders include:
- Offering wild-caught foxes for sale.
- Foxes that exhibit fearful behavior and lack socialization.
- Poor enclosure conditions or signs of neglect.
- Refusal to allow potential buyers to visit and see the fox parents.
- Lack of vet records, health guarantees, or breeding registration.
- Suspiciously low prices for rare black fox morphs.
Good breeders put in the hard work of captive breeding and hand-raising imprinted, people-friendly foxes. They health test breeding stock for issues like hip dysplasia. Reputable sellers are also licensed and inspected by the USDA. Take time finding the right breeder for your exotic new pet fox.
Are melanistic foxes suitable for families?
In general, foxes tend not to make good pets for families with small children. Reasons melanistic foxes are poorly suited for homes with kids:
- Foxes have sharp teeth and can bite or scratch if mishandled, especially if startled.
- Their skittish nature makes them prone to nipping at unfamiliar people like young kids.
- Loud noises and activity from children stresses shy foxes.
- Foxes require very specific care that children cannot provide.
- They are primarily solitary animals that do not play with humans the way a dog would.
- Most homeowner’s insurance bans certain exotic pets like foxes.
Families with older respectful children capable of carefully interacting with a fox may be able to properly house one. But foxes tend to do best in stable adult-only homes as they are high-strung pets.
Conclusion
While exotic and beautiful, melanistic foxes have very specific care, diet, housing and handling needs compared to more conventional pets. They also face extensive regulation as non-domesticated animals. Exotic pet lovers with the right facilities and skills can find these elegant black foxes rewarding, albeit challenging, to own. But melanistic foxes prove too difficult for many inexperienced owners to properly care for. Do extensive research to see if owning one of these rare beauties fits your lifestyle.