The Mission of Black Foxes UK
Since 2015, Black Foxes UK has been raising awareness about the unique challenges faced by silver foxes in the UK. Our mission is to advocate for these animals, calling for proper regulation and classification to ensure their welfare and the protection of native wildlife. Many people are unaware that silver foxes, often confused with native red foxes, are a domesticated, non-native subspecies. This misunderstanding creates legal and welfare complications that could be easily addressed through regulation.
The Root of the Problem
In the early 2000s, changes in UK law removed certain exotic species, including silver foxes, from the Dangerous Wild Animals Act (DWA). This deregulation allowed silver foxes, originally bred for the fur trade, to be kept as pets without the necessary infrastructure in place to support their care. Unfortunately, this has led to a lack of accountability in their breeding, keeping, and welfare. Silver foxes require specific care that is not adequately covered by the Animal Welfare Act, and the absence of legal safeguards has resulted in misinformation, neglect, and, in some cases, escapes into the wild.
When silver foxes escape, they are often misclassified as wild foxes, and laws regarding their capture and care become muddled. Wild foxes can only be caught if they are injured, which means even a lost pet may be left to suffer until visible harm is present. This oversight endangers not only the escaped fox but also local ecosystems and native wildlife populations.
What We Aim to Achieve
At Black Foxes UK, we believe the solution lies in clear, species-specific regulation. We are campaigning for the silver fox to be reclassified as Vulpes vulpes fulva—its original classification—separating it from the wild red fox native to the UK. This reclassification would allow for appropriate laws to be put in place that protect both wild and captive foxes without endangering animal rescues, who would otherwise be limited in their ability to assist wild foxes.
We are also calling for a new system of licensing and regulation for those who wish to keep or breed silver foxes. Such measures would ensure that only those with the necessary resources, knowledge, and facilities can take on the responsibility of caring for these animals. Licensing fees would contribute to the creation of the currently non-existent support systems, such as access to appropriate veterinary care and secure, regulated enclosures.
How You Can Help
Regulation is not about limiting the passion of fox enthusiasts but about ensuring that both the animals and the people caring for them are protected. With proper legal structures in place, we can prevent illegal and irresponsible breeding, ensure that foxes are well cared for in captivity, and preserve our native wildlife. Black Foxes UK is committed to pushing for this change, but we need your support to make it happen.
By joining our cause and supporting the petition we are submitting to the UK government, you can help us achieve the recognition and regulation that silver foxes desperately need. Together, we can ensure a future where these beautiful animals are cared for in a safe and sustainable way.
Sign up to our mailing list to be notified when the petition goes live. Your voice could make all the difference.
Comments