At only 2 to 3 pounds (1 to 1.5 kilograms) of total body weight, the African desert dweller known as the fennec fox is actually the smallest wild canine in existence. Known for their large ears, which can stick out as far as 6 inches (15 centimeters) on each side, fennec foxes have actually become a popular “exotic pet” in recent years because of they’re high intelligence, ability to be liter box trained, highly adaptable diet, and their “pet-like behavior” (example: it purs like a cat when it’s happy). In the wild, fennec foxes are nocturnal (although they are known to lay out and bask in the sun for warmth), are known as great climbers, can dig down up to 20 feet (about 6 meters), and prefer warm climates (they will shiver in anything less than 68 degrees Fahrenheit). Fennec foxes are also known to live in colonies with many other foxes; these colonies will often be a series of tunnels and dens protected by sand dunes. Although they’re small size make them prey to many other larger creatures, fennec foxes use their speed to evade capture, ensuring that this ultra-small and ultra-cute species will continue to thrive.
