Bat-Eared Fox Hunting in Africa

The Bat-Eared Fox (Otocyon megalotis) is a small fox species native to the African savanna and semi-arid regions of Southern and East Africa. There are two species of Bat-Eared Foxes, one in southern Africa and one in East Africa.

They live in areas of short grasslands, savannas, and acacia woodlands, where they hunt in the short grasses. When preyed upon, they hide in shrubs and tall grass until the danger has passed.

These carnivores aren’t water dependent, but rather gain moisture from the food they consume. These Foxes hunt in groups and locate prey through sound, picked up by their large ears. A large portion of their diet consists of termites and dung beetles, but young birds, eggs, rodents, and lizards also make up their culinary variety.

The Bat-Eared Fox is extremely social and lives in pairs, groups, or family units within dens. Although they are quite capable of digging their own burrows, they often live in other animals’ burrows, such as the aardvark. The aardvark’s burrow has several chambers as well as entrances, making it the perfect place to raise pups. Mating takes place from September to November, and after a gestation period of 60-70 days, the vixen gives birth to between 2 and 5 pups. Both parents assist in rearing their offspring.

Being so tiny, the Bat-eared Fox has numerous enemies, including large Birds of Prey, Pythons, Wild Dogs, Cheetahs, Hyenas, Lions, and Leopards. Large snakes are also responsible for the death of many young Bat-eared Fox pups.

Their IUCN status is Least Concern.