Vulpe

Vulpe is the Romanian word for fox, the common name used for various small to medium canids in the family Canidae. In zoological terms, the most widespread species associated with the word is the red fox, Vulpes vulpes, which belongs to the genus Vulpes. The word vulpe is feminine in Romanian; its plural form is vulpi.

The red fox is a slender, agile mammal with a pointed muzzle, erect ears, and a long, bushy tail. Adults typically weigh between 4 and 7 kilograms and have a body length of about 45–90 centimeters, with a tail of roughly 30–50 centimeters. Fur color is variable but commonly red or reddish-brown on the back, with lighter underparts and a white tip on the tail. The red fox shows regional color variation and seasonal changes in fur.

Distribution and habitat: the red fox is native to Eurasia and North America and has adapted to a wide range of habitats, including forests, grasslands, deserts, and urban areas. It has been introduced to Australia, where it is considered an invasive predator. Other vulpine species occur in different regions, but the red fox is the most widely recognized in many areas.

Ecology and behavior: foxes are omnivorous, feeding on small mammals, birds, insects, fruit, and scavenged food. They are typically most active at dawn and dusk, and often hunt alone. They use dens or burrows for shelter and rearing young. Breeding usually occurs in winter, with gestation around 52 days and litters of about four to six cubs. In the wild, lifespans are commonly 2–4 years, though individuals can live longer in protected conditions.

Cultural notes: in Romanian folklore and literature, the vulpe is a frequent symbol of cunning and cleverness. The term reflects both the animal and its cultural associations, and it is used in daily language to refer to a fox.