Members of the public should not feed or handle wild foxes around the community of Beau Bois on the Burin Peninsula. Conservation officers have removed one fox from the area and continue to monitor others that are accustomed to being fed this way.

The public should take appropriate steps to avoid encounters with foxes, as wild animals can be extremely dangerous and unpredictable when approached. The public is also reminded to never to feed any wildlife, as it creates a safety hazard and may lead to the destruction of the animal.

Conservation Officers will only handle wildlife if there is a public safety concern or circumstances warrant the animal’s removal. Otherwise, wildlife are best left in their natural surroundings. While the department may relocate some injured or orphaned wildlife to Salmonier Nature Park for rehabilitation, the park is not equipped to manage high numbers of such animals.

The possession and captive housing of wildlife by individual citizens is not permitted in Newfoundland and Labrador under the provincial Wild Life Act and Regulations. Anyone encountering what they believe to be an orphaned or injured animal should contact their local Forestry and Wildlife district office.

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Media contact
Craig Renouf
Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture
709-637-2923, 640-6922
craigrenouf@gov.nl.ca