Foxes can be a fun addition to your green space, with their long bushy tails and cute faces. But the intelligent scavengers can make a bit of a mess and you may not want them going near certain parts of your garden.
Creating a wildlife-friendly garden
An expert has shared how to accommodate some foxy friends, as they can in fact be "really valuable" for encouraging biodiversity. Luke Newnes, gardening expert at outdoor furnishings shop Hillarys, said: "If you enjoy seeing foxes, it's perfectly possible to create a garden that's welcoming to wildlife without sacrificing the space altogether. I like the idea of having a dedicated wildlife area with taller planting, natural cover and a shallow source of water, while keeping the rest of the garden more structured and protected."
Simple measures to protect your space
He shared some "simple measures" that can make a "huge difference" in protecting your green space:
- Use sturdy compost bins
- Protect your vegetable beds
- Edge off more delicate planting areas.
Mr Newnes said: "That way, wildlife has somewhere to thrive without every corner of the garden becoming a digging zone." He said the idea here is to keep everything in harmony.
The outdoors expert said: "For me, the best wildlife-friendly gardens are the ones that feel balanced. You can support local wildlife while still having a garden that's practical, tidy and enjoyable for family and friends."
Foxes' role in the ecosystem
Mr Newnes made the case for why foxes are an important part of the natural world. He said: "Foxes are one of those animals that can be a bit divisive, but they actually play an important role in the wider ecosystem. They're natural scavengers, so they'll clear away carrion and food waste, and they also help keep rodent numbers under control." He said that from a gardening perspective, these activities of foxes help keep your green space balanced, which is "really valuable".
He explained: "We often talk about encouraging biodiversity in our outdoor spaces, and foxes are part of that picture. Their presence is often a sign that there's a healthy mix of wildlife and habitats in the area, which ultimately benefits the local ecosystem as a whole."
