Interesting Facts About Bat Eared Fox
Bat Eared Fox – The bat-eared fox, a charming species inhabiting the plains of Eastern and Southern Africa, sustains itself on a diet primarily composed of termites, all while displaying its playful nature. With its endearing appearance, featuring ears that can extend up to 5 inches (13cm) in length, this inquisitive mammal roams the landscape, its ears popping out above the short grass. Yet, the true purpose of these oversized, dish-like ears might surprise you.
In Uganda, sightings of the bat-eared fox are possible in Kidepo Valley National Park and Pian Upe, located in the northeastern Karamoja region. This area boasts a remarkable abundance of predators, including lions, leopards, cheetahs, and, notably, the bat-eared fox.
Bat-Eared Fox Facts Overview
| Habitat: | Grasslands, plains savannah |
| Location: | Eastern and Southern Africa |
| Lifespan: | Over 9 years |
| Size: | 18 to 26” (46 to 66cm) |
| Weight: | 7-12lb (3-5kg) |
| Color: | Ashy grey, with black-tipped ears, black legs and tail |
| Diet: | Mostly termites, also grasshoppers, crickets, beetles, larva, wild fruit |
| Predators: | Hunting dogs, jackals, hyenas, cheetah |
| Top Speed: | 60 kph (35mph) |
| No. of Species: | 1 |
| Conservation Status: | Least concern |
True to its name, the bat-eared fox possesses remarkably large ears, reminiscent of those found in many bat species. Its body typically showcases a yellow-brown hue, accentuated by a pale throat and underparts. Notably, the fox boasts distinct black markings on the outsides of its ears, creating a raccoon-like “face-mask,” as well as on its lower legs, feet, and tail tip. With relatively short legs, it stands out further due to its dental arrangement; boasting more teeth than the majority of placental mammals, with a count ranging from 46 to 50.
Fascinating Facts
- Equipped with exceptionally sharp teeth, the bat-eared fox efficiently chews its meals, facilitating digestion with remarkable speed.
- Relying heavily on their diet, bat-eared foxes rarely find the need to drink water, as they derive the majority of their required moisture from the food they consume.
- Unlike their counterparts in the canid family, male bat-eared foxes take on the primary responsibilities of parental care, while females focus on foraging to sustain milk production for their offspring.
- From the perspective of farmers, bat-eared foxes serve as invaluable allies in controlling harvester termite populations, regarded as pests that threaten agricultural yields.
