The most widely distributed of the true foxes, the red fox can be found all over North America, Central America, Asia, the Arctic and Africa. The red fox also happens to be the largest of the true foxes, with a length of 45 to 90 cm (18 to 35 in) and a weight of 2.2 to 14 kg (4.9 to 31 lb). Despite their size, red foxes are very quick, with a trot speed of 3.5-8 mph (6–13 km/h), and a maximum running speed of 31 mph (50 km/h). Distinguishing them from other canines, are their long bodies with long fluffy tails. They aren’t always red however.

Within the red fox species are 45 subspecies which fall into two categories: the northern foxes, and those native to Asia and the Middle East. All of them are known to be highly social, living in groups led by a mated pair that has a monopoly on breeding within the group. They are joined by their young, who remain with the group in order to help care for newborns. They are known to make a number of different vocalizations while communicating with each other.

Red foxes eat fruits and vegetables, but are primarily carnivores; they feed on small rodents, rabbits, hares, pikas, game birds, reptiles, invertebrates, and small ungulates (hooved creatrues like goats or sheep). Red foxes are primarily preyed upon by wolves, coyotes, golden jackals, and medium and large felines. Although it is widely hunted for its fur and often considered a pest by humans, the red fox is not currently in any danger of becoming extinct due to its ability to adapt to different environments (even venturing into urban areas).