Are pet foxes legal in Arkansas?

Are Pet Foxes Legal In Arkansas?

Long story short, yes, pet foxes are legal in Arkansas, but there are a few things you should know first.

When it comes to pets, people have all different tastes. At my house, we have had dogs, tropical fish, hermit crabs and fiddler crabs.

Each pet has it’s advantages and disadvantages. I can’t tell you how happy I was to get out of the tropical fish stage! Personally, I like the fairly low-maintenance hermit crabs but maybe you’re looking for a pet that is a little more unique.

Maybe you want something more exotic than just a dog, cat or hermit crab. Having a fox as a pet could be just what you’re looking for.

Here in Arkansas, it is legal to own a fox as a pet.

Can You Own A Red Fox In Arkansas?

Yes, you can own a red fox as a pet in Arkansas. Actually, all species of fox are legal in Arkansas so that means you can have a gray fox as a pet also!

Arkansas pet fox

Where To Get A Pet Fox In Arkansas

If you’re as sly as a fox, you can catch your own pet fox in Arkansas.

You can also obtain a pet fox that was born in captivity but always examine the AGFC regulations first.

How To Trap A Fox

The easiest way to capture or trap a fox is with a Live Box Trap. Keep in mind that catching a fox is not like the time you caught that mouse in a live trap in your garage. Mice will crawl into just about any space or trap as long as food is available.

However, a fox is more cautious.

Foxes are extremely wary and cautious animals, so luring them into your trap will take time and strategy. Baiting a fox trap is usually a process that takes several days. (source)

Also, don’t miss this: Arkansas Foxes: The Red, The Gray and The Skittish

Rules Of Owning A Wild Fox In Arkansas

Owning a pet fox sounds interesting but you must follow the rules here in Arkansas.

According to the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission:

  • Once taken, the animal must remain in the owner’s custody, except pets other than white-tailed deer may be turned over to a permitted wildlife rehabilitator for release back into the wild.
  • Males and females must be kept in separate pens unless they have been neutered to prevent reproduction.
  • All wildlife kept as pets must be kept in cages that keep them from escaping and keep other wildlife from entering.
  • (source)

Keep in mind that you cannot sell your pet fox or transfer it to anyone else. Before you capture your pet fox, make sure you’re ready for the commitment.

Also, don’t think you can just take your pet fox with you on a trip to visit your cousin in Oklahoma (or whatever state your cousin lives in).

No sir.

Before you plan your family trip out of state, you must get permission from the Chief of Wildlife Management. Without proper permission, you’ll have to keep Foxy within state lines.

Can Pet Foxes Be Born And Bred In Captivity?

The answer is maybe.

You will want to read the regulations, codes and addendums from the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission. You can read them here.

So, Can You Have a Pet Fox In Arkansas?

You sure can! Just follow all the rules and regulations from the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission. If you go that, you just might be the coolest person on the block!

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