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A Tennessee hardwood forest trail in soft morning light with mist between the trees, ferns, oak and hickory trunks, a creek in the distance.

Wildlife of Tennessee · Predators and Large Animals

Gray Fox in Tennessee

It climbs, so it can reach poultry and low roofs. Call 615-357-7797 any hour.

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A gray fox standing on a fallen log in Tennessee hardwood forest, gray coat with rusty sides, soft morning light.

At a Glance

About the Gray Fox

Coyotes, foxes, bobcats, bears and deer are part of Tennessee’s landscape. Most conflicts are about pets, poultry, gardens and trash, so prevention works better than removal.

Humane Exclusion

Risk: It climbs, so it can reach poultry and low roofs.

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Scientific nameUrocyon cinereoargenteus
Size32 to 45 inches
Where it shows upWooded subdivisions, hollow trees, brush piles and sheds
When it is activeDusk, dawn and night

Signs You Have One

How to Tell

These are the clues that point to a gray fox.

  • A fox up in a tree or on a roof edge
  • Dens in brush piles, hollow logs and under buildings
  • Scat packed with fruit pits and fur

Humane Exclusion

What We Do About the Gray Fox

We favor exclusion, one-way exits and deterrents so the animal leaves on its own and cannot return. Trapping is used only where it is allowed and needed.

Prevention

Keep Them Away

Simple steps that help for this kind of animal.

  • Keep small pets inside at night
  • Use tall fences with a buried base
  • Secure trash, feed and bird seed
  • Lock poultry in a predator-proof coop at dusk

Similar Animals

More Predators and Large Animals

Free Tool

What Animal Is It? Identifier

Pick where it is, when you notice it and the signs you see, and get a ranked list of the likely Tennessee animals.

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Good to Know

Questions About Gray Fox

Still have a question?

Call 615-357-7797

How do I know if I have a gray fox?

Common signs: a fox up in a tree or on a roof edge; dens in brush piles, hollow logs and under buildings; scat packed with fruit pits and fur.

Is a gray fox dangerous?

It climbs, so it can reach poultry and low roofs. When in doubt, keep your distance and call us.

What does Music City Wildlife do about a gray fox?

We favor exclusion, one-way exits and deterrents so the animal leaves on its own and cannot return. Trapping is used only where it is allowed and needed. Call 615-357-7797 any hour.

Free Estimate

Tell Us What Is Going On

Describe what you see, hear or smell and we will get back to you quickly with a plan and a free estimate. For an animal in the house or any emergency, skip the form and call 615-357-7797 any hour.

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