The Red Fox: Observations of Learned vs Innate Behaviors
By Dave Hanks
The Red Fox has so many and varied behaviors that it makes for an
interesting study subject. It is also interesting to try to determine
where innate actions end and learned ones take over.
Certainly what is eaten, and the urge to store the left-overs for later
consumption, has to be an innate response. Likewise, the rising up on
the hind legs to pounce on prey, as well as the urge to mark territory
through urination - would, I think, be programmed at birth. Like all
animals, their DNA code and resulting actions are inescapable.
But the fox demonstrates much that has to be learned and indicates a
keen intelligence. The complex variety of vocalizations and certain
hunting techniques would have to be copied from their parents. When
parents bring back live rodents for the young to practice with, shows
that school is definitely in session. Parents will also hold prey in
their mouths, while moving their heads from side to side and up and
down. This forces the pups to exercise and gain agility in their
hunting movements.
A very good example of this animal’s intelligence is how they have
learned to avoid the fox hunting chase by doubling back and running
down the middle of a stream to erase their odor trail. Another
intriguing behavior is called “charming”. Instead of dashing into a
group of rabbits, who would then quickly escape, the fox will roll
on the ground and chase its tail in a seemingly unconcerned attitude.
The rabbits will curiously watch, but the predator slowly rolls close
enough to suddenly spring and catch a rabbit.Is this behavior learned
or innate? Your guess is as good as mine.
One fact, however, is that the more learning that is required – the
more important play becomes amongst the young. Play also establishes
dominance rankings and that reduces future adult conflicts.
(A young fox checks me out)
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