Treating Red Foxes Suffering from Mange Solves Chupacabra Problem

Foxy Loxy while suffering from mange photo by Pat Rounds

BRADENTON – There have been several cases of ”unknown animals“ reported as everything from dingos to wolves to coyotes and even the mythical chupacabra this summer in Florida. All of the incidents seem to have one thing in common: they involve red foxes suffering from easily-treated mange.

Several of the unfortunate animals have been put down, though treatment of this rare and beautiful local treasure is relatively easy and has a high degree of success. Yet without treatment, mange can kill within four months. While the most noticeable effect of severe mange is the hair loss that renders the animal almost unrecognizable, it also affects organ systems. Without treatment, Florida foxes are dying in droves from mange. 

To the right, are before and after pictures of a fox that was seen in a local subdivision for several months. Some people in a neighboring subdivision started ranting about seeing a "dingo in the pawk."

Foxy Loxy on her way to recovery after treatment photo by Pat Rounds

One resident reportedly even vowed to ”shoot the wild coyote“ that was ”killing everything in sight,“ a claim he offered no evidence to support.

After doing some research and contacting a local wildlife support group for assistance, an attempt was made to trap and treat the red fox, and when that didn't work, it was given several doses of ivermectin. Not only did the fox recover, but she hasn't been spotted since, as they typically return to their normal grounds and routine once the mange clears up. Let's hope that more Floridians become aware of this easily treated condition and take steps to protect this beautiful, local gem.

Special thanks to local animal lover Pat Rounds who provided the background information and photos for this story. Pat has worked to elevate awareness of this condition, in hope of preventing the needless decimation of this beautiful species.