Stunning Photos And Video Footage Of Rare And Wild Black And Red Cross Foxes
You've probably heard of an albino condition that strips humans and animals of melanin, but you may not have heard of melanism. Melanism is arguably the exact opposite of albinism, as it creates much darker skin tones. Just as albinism in animals produces lighter skin and fur patterns, melanism creates darker skin and fur patterns.
The cross fox is a stunning example of how melanism in nature can be incredible to see. A variant of the red fox, the cross fox can sometimes be entirely black, but it is most known for a black stripe down its middle back and an additional intersecting stripe across the shoulder blades, forming a cross.
The sight of the cross fox may be a little eerie for some people, but most find these stunning animals to be breathtaking.
Historically, the cross fox was once considered an entirely separate species from the red fox.
It even had its own scientific name before it was realized that they simply exhibit melanism.
It is also believed that in the past, cross foxes were much more abundant than they are today.
Sadly, their beautiful furs were once highly sought after by many humans, leading to relentless hunting.
It was also once believed that their striking appearances were a bad omen!
As a result of being hunted for both their fur and the belief that they represented bad omens, the cross fox nearly went extinct. However, in their home of North America, they can still occasionally be spotted.
The only notable differences between cross foxes and red foxes are slightly bushier tails, slightly larger frames, and woolly feet.
Take a good look at these utterly majestic foxes while you can, because extinction is still a possibility.
Share this article:
