We propose an intriguing theory that the Fuegian dog, the Falkland Island wolf (or Warrah) and the Dogxim are all, in fact, a similar type of tamed or domesticated South American fox. Although this connection has not yet been widely recognized and requires further genetic verification, the overlapping geographical ranges and shared characteristics of these animals suggest a common origin. Historical descriptions, indigenous accounts, and modern biological studies offer circumstantial support for the idea that these animals could all represent these semi-domesticated forms of South American foxes.

The Fuegian Dog

The domesticated fox, often referred to in relation to the Culpeo fox or Lycalopex culpaeus, represents a unique form of canid whose origins and domestication processes remain a subject of ongoing research. Recent studies suggest that these foxes may not simply be a direct descendant of wild canids but rather a distinct variety that has evolved alongside indigenous cultures in South America.

These foxes were associated with the indigenous peoples of the Patagonian region, particularly those known as the “foot Indians,” such as the Aonikenk, Manek’enk, and Selk’nam groups. While exhibiting wild traits, these foxes demonstrated a certain level of tameness and served as companions, aiding in hunting and other activities. This relationship underscores the complex interplay between humans and canids in this isolated part of the world, suggesting that domesticated foxes may have played a significant role in the social and cultural practices of the indigenous communities.

The Warrah or Falkland Island Wolf

The Falkland Island wolf (Dusicyon australis), also known as the "Warrah" was once native to the Falkland Islands, which lie off the coast of Argentina. This animal, now extinct, puzzled scientists and explorers because it was the only native land mammal of the Falklands, which are geographically isolated from the South American mainland. Charles Darwin encountered the animal during his voyage on the HMS Beagle and noted its striking similarity to both wolves and foxes.

Recent genetic studies have linked the Falkland Island wolf to South American foxes, specifically the culpeo. However, it is still debated whether human intervention played a role in the wolf’s arrival on the Falklands or if it crossed naturally during a glaciation period. The idea of human interaction supports the theory that the Warrah could be an introduced or semi-domesticated form of South American fox, potentially brought to the islands by indigenous people from the mainland for hunting or companionship.

Domesticated Culpeo Theory

The culpeo is one of the largest South American fox species, with a range that extends from Ecuador to Tierra del Fuego, making it a prime candidate for domestication by indigenous peoples living in southern South America. The theory that the Fuegian dog and Falkland Island wolf are all domesticated forms of South American foxes hinges on the idea that different indigenous groups may have partially domesticated or tamed these animals for specific purposes, such as hunting or companionship.

Additionally, these species are known to hybridize, further complicating their classification and suggesting a more fluid relationship between domesticated and wild populations. Similarly, the genetic evidence linking the Falkland Island wolf to mainland culpeo populations suggests that human interaction may have played a role in their domestication or introduction to new environments.

Dogxim: Domesticated Fox, Hybrid or Something Else?

The discovery of "Dogxim," a female pampas fox (Lycalopex gymnocercus) in Brazil, has raised fascinating questions about its origins. While many have speculated that this animal represents the first documented hybrid between a domestic dog and a wild fox, we believe there could be another explanation. Dogxim’s unusual coat colour and behaviour may point to it being one of the long-lost domesticated foxes of South America, such as the Fuegian or Yaghan dog, rather than a dog-fox hybrid. These domesticated foxes, thought to have gone extinct by the early 20th century, displayed various coat colour mutations, much like Dogxim, which appears to look like a melanistic culpeo.

Due to the ability for all South American foxes to hybridize, it is possible that traits from these extinct domesticated foxes have survived unnoticed in the genetic background of wild fox populations. If Dogxim is not directly descended from these lost animals, it could be a hybrid with domesticated fox lineage, blending the genes of both wild and once-domesticated ancestors. However, without additional genetic samples and further studies, it remains speculative whether this animal truly represents a dog-fox hybrid or a unique descendant of domesticated foxes, hybrid with native foxes or otherwise. Fox litters average 4-5 cubs, so this animal will not be alone.

Channel Island Foxes: Was Fox Taming Trending?

The Channel Island foxes (Urocyon littoralis), native to the Californian Channel Islands, present another fascinating example of potential domestication. These small foxes, distinct from their mainland relatives, have long been isolated on the islands, and their unusually close relationship with the Guaycura of Baja California, the indigenous people of the region suggests they may have been semi-domesticated. Archaeological evidence points to human influence on their evolution, including changes in size and behaviour that align with traits often associated with domesticated animals. Could these foxes represent a forgotten or overlooked case of domestication, similar to the domesticated foxes of South America?

The Channel Island foxes' reduced aggression and adaptability to living alongside humans make them an intriguing candidate for further study into ancient domestication practices. Exploring these foxes' history might provide insight into how early humans influenced fox species across the globe.

Summary

The hypothesis that the Fuegian dog, the Falkland Island wolf and the Dogxim, are all variations of a domesticated culpeo offers a compelling explanation for the shared characteristics of these animals. However, we acknowledge that more genetic testing would be required to fully confirm this theory. It speaks to the complex and diverse ways that humans have interacted with canids throughout history, particularly in isolated regions like Tierra del Fuego and the Falkland Islands. This semi-domestication, suggests that indigenous peoples had a nuanced relationship with the culpeo, possibly using these animals for hunting, companionship, and even spiritual purposes.

Such connections demonstrate the fluid boundaries between wild and domestic animals in prehistoric societies and highlight the adaptability of both humans and canids in navigating challenging environments like the southernmost regions of South America.

Sources:

• The rare Fuegian fox (Lycalopex culpaeus) from the Tierra del Fuego Archipelago: history of discovery, geographic distribution, and socio-ecological aspects

• The identity of Fuegian and Patagonian “dogs” among indigenous peoples in southernmost South America

• Evidence Shows Humans May Have Introduced Now-Extinct Wolf to the Falkland Islands

• Evidence of prehistoric human activity in the Falkland Islands

• Overview of Archeology: Channel Islands of California

• Island foxes may be 'least variable' of all wild animals

• Wikipedia - Fuegian Dog

• Wikipedia - Culpeo

• Wikipedia - Island Fox

• Dogxim: If Not A Fox-Dog Hybrid, Then What?

• World’s first dog-fox at centre of government investigation

• Hybridization in Canids—A Case Study of Pampas Fox (Lycalopex gymnocercus) and Domestic Dog (Canis lupus familiaris) Hybrid