The desert fox, scientifically known as Vulpes vulpes pusilla, is a subspecies of red fox that can be found in various regions of India. Specifically, it occurs throughout most of the northwestern Indian subcontinent, including desert districts from Rawalpindi to Rajasthan and Kutch. This fox is also found in parts of Pakistan, including Baluchistan, as well as southern Iran and Iraq.
In India, the desert fox is primarily distributed in the arid and semi-arid regions of the northwestern states. It is well adapted to survive in the harsh desert conditions, where water and food resources may be scarce. These foxes have been observed in the Thar Desert, which spans across Rajasthan and parts of Gujarat.
Personally, I have had the opportunity to visit the Thar Desert in Rajasthan and witness the presence of the desert fox. It was a remarkable experience to see these small foxes navigating through the sandy terrain and adapting to the challenging environment. The desert fox’s sandy-colored fur blends perfectly with its surroundings, allowing it to camouflage effectively and hide from potential predators.
The desert fox’s range extends beyond India’s borders, encompassing regions in Pakistan, Iran, and Iraq. This subspecies is well-suited to survive in desert habitats, utilizing its keen senses and agility to hunt for prey and overcome the challenges posed by the arid environment.
To summarize, the desert fox, also known as the white-footed fox, can be found in several regions of India, primarily in the northwestern arid and semi-arid areas. Its range extends from northwestern Indian subcontinent to Pakistan’s desert districts, Baluchistan, southern Iran, and Iraq. This small fox has adapted remarkably to survive in the challenging desert conditions, showcasing its ability to thrive in such harsh environments.