Fennek

Basic Information

Ecology and Habitats

Fenneks originate from desert areas and climates, which is why they are very well adapted to heat and dryness. They have fur under their feet that act as a barrier to the hot desert sand.
As they get increasingly domesticated, they slowly adapt to the prevailing climate conditions. Some examples of adaptions are:

• Thicker and longer fur in cold climates
• Darker coat within forest biomes as camouflage
• Regression of the hair under their feet in muddy biomes
• Development of slightly curly fur within incredibly windy areas

Dietary Needs and Habits

Fenneks eat insects alongside small rodents, birds, and reptiles. They supplement their food with eggs, fruits, and plant tubers. Most of the time, they don't have to drink as they draw water from their food or synthesize it from the nutrients within the food items.

Additional Information

Social Structure

In the wild, they live in small groups of up to seven individuals in complex tunnel systems underground. Those groups are mainly the direct family - mother, father, and their puppies.

Domestication

Fenneks are domesticated as pets and helping animals which caused them to live in other habitats than their original habitat and adapt to the prevailing climatic conditions.

Uses, Products & Exploitation

They can detect movements underground, helping to search for water as well as to detect and warn for dangers like landslides and avalanches.

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

Fenneks primarily use their sense of smell, hearing, and touch.

Eyes

Fenneks are nearly colorblind but have a good night and motion vision as long as there isn't complete darkness.

Ears

Because of their large ears, they can hear and detect movements underground, helping them find food. They can localize a sound source accurately to the centimeter.

Nose

The sense of smell is used for food search, orientation, and communication. This sense is primarily used to identify their affiliation based on the scent.

Tactile Hair and Vibrissa

Tactile hair and vibrissa help fenneks to use their sense of touch. The tactile hair can be found on several areas of the body, allowing them to move through complete darkness as they detect the slightest touches.

Tail

The tail helps to maintain balance and always land on their feet.

Lifespan

10-15 years

Average Height

18-23 cm at the shoulders

Average Weight

1-2 kg

Average Length

25-41 cm body
18-30 cm tail
9-10 cm ears

Body Tint, Colouring and Marking

It has thick fur with colors ranging from light cream to dark brown, depending on the habitat. There are lighter spots around the nose and eyes and a darker area on the tip of the tail. The fur length varies depending on the average temperature of the habitat.