Because of his ability to look out for himself, his numbers are 

 increasing and very probably he finds man to-day a far less deadly 

 foe than the large wild beasts in the past. For a home, the fox 

 has a burrow where the five to eight young are born each spring, 

 but he prefers to spend most of his time in the open. From some 

 lurking-place he goes forth to seek his prey, which may be a rab- 

 bit, woodchuck, rats or mice, or, if fortune favors him, a tender 

 chicken or young duck. If he lives near the shore he may "go fish- 

 ing" at low water for crabs and other sea food. His excursions 

 usually take place at night and it is a frequent custom for the 

 marauder to scurry back as soon as his booty is secured and devour 

 it in his den. 



For ages "wise as a fox" has been a proverb and this mem- 

 ber of the family keeps up the traditional reputation. Especially 

 does he show his wit, when hunted, where the odds are decidedly 

 against him, his cleverness at escaping horses and hounds has been 



100 



