fennec

The fennec, or fennec fox (Vulpes zerda), is a small desert-dwelling canid native to the Sahara and parts of North Africa and the Arabian Peninsula.

It has a compact body, very large ears, and pale sandy fur that reflects sunlight and camouflages it in dunes. Adults typically measure 24–41 cm in body length, with tails of 18–31 cm and a weight near 1–1.5 kg.

Oversized ears aid hearing for locating prey and dissipating heat. The fur insulates against extreme temperatures, and the kidneys are adapted to conserve water. It is primarily nocturnal, sheltering in burrows during the day and foraging at night.

Found in the Sahara and adjacent arid regions of North Africa, Sinai, and parts of the Arabian Peninsula, it prefers sandy deserts and rocky areas with sparse vegetation and uses burrows to escape heat.

Diet is opportunistic and omnivorous, including insects such as locusts, small vertebrates, berries, and roots. Keen hearing helps locate prey underground.

Breeding occurs year-round in some areas; gestation is about 50 days, with litters of 2–5 pups. Pups are weaned at 6–8 weeks and stay in the family den until dispersing.

Conservation status: The IUCN lists the fennec as Least Concern due to its wide distribution and large population. Threats include habitat disturbance and wildlife trade in some regions.