Bat-Eared Fox hunting in Tanzania

Bat-eared Foxes are the only foxes found in Tanzania and are not considered true foxes. They derive their name from their very large ears. These large black ears are used to dissipate heat and to hear their prey underground. Their diet consists of insects, small reptiles, locusts and termites which make up 80 - 90% of their diet. Bat-eared Foxes have smaller teeth than other members of the Fox family, this being a special adaptation to their insectivorous diet. These mostly nocturnal animals are best hunted in the cooler months when they are most likely to be found feeding at dawn and dusk. Bat-eared Foxes are hunted for their soft fur pelts. They are classified as a species of least concern by the IUCN.