Four Subspecies of Fox are Proposed for Protection as Endangered Species

Four subspecies of the tiny, docile fox inhabiting four of the Channel Islands off of the Southern California coast may receive federal protection under the Endangered Species Act, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced today.

The Santa Cruz fox, Santa Rosa fox, San Miguel fox and Santa Catalina fox are being proposed as endangered species. A species is designated as endangered when it is likely to become extinct within the foreseeable future throughout all or a significant portion of its range.

"foxes are a coastal treasure and they need protection if they are to survive in their unique homes," said Steve Thompson, acting manager of the Service