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Abundance of Arctic Foxes: Risk of Rabies and Coexistence in Northern Regions

Press Release

January 31, 2025

During years of high Arctic fox abundance, they are more frequently seen in larger numbers near human settlements. Caution is essential, as Arctic foxes may carry rabies.

The Arctic fox is present in the Nord-du-Québec region and occasionally in other areas such as the Côte-Nord. Its abundance follows cycles of three to five years, depending on populations of small mammals, primarily lemmings, its main prey. When lemming abundance reaches its peak, Arctic foxes produce a large number of pups in the spring. The survival rate of these young foxes is high, leading to an increased fox population the following winter. As a result, the species is more frequently observed and in greater numbers near villages and human infrastructure, attracted by abundant and accessible food sources.

Best Practices for Coexistence

Arctic foxes are generally less wary of humans than red foxes (in French only), especially when food is readily available.

Intentional or accidental feeding of Arctic foxes or any other wildlife should be avoided. Feeding wildlife habituates them to human presence, increasing the risk of contact or attacks on humans or domestic animals.

To avoid attracting Arctic foxes and other wildlife, all food sources should be made inaccessible (e.g., garbage, pet food, carcasses). Closed garbage bins and frequent waste collection help reduce food availability near homes, which can help limit the presence of foxes.

Rabies in Arctic Foxes

Rabies is a contagious and fatal disease caused by a virus that attacks the nervous system of mammals, including humans. Once symptoms of the disease appear, death is inevitable. Even animals that appear healthy can be infected with rabies.

In Québec, three variants of rabies are found in wildlife: bat rabies, raccoon rabies, and Arctic fox rabies. Regardless of the variant, the disease can be transmitted to both animals and humans.

Arctic fox rabies is endemic in Arctic fox and red fox populations in Nord-du-Québec. Although not all foxes carry the disease, the risk of rabies transmission exists at all times in northern environments.

Unlike raccoon rabies, Arctic fox rabies cannot be eliminated from a region. Arctic foxes can travel hundreds of kilometers across the Arctic Circle, and thus, might spread rabies over vast areas. Consequently, controlling rabies in wildlife in these regions is impossible.

In northern regions, where there is always a risk of rabid wildlife, constant vigilance is essential. In addition to best practices for avoiding attracting foxes to human-occupied areas, vaccinating domestic animals reduces the risk of transmission to humans.

What to Do if You Encounter Arctic Foxes or Come Into Contact with an Unknown Animal?

  • If you have been bitten or scratched by an animal, or if you have come into contact with its saliva: Clean the wound thoroughly with water and soap for 10 to 15 minutes, even if it appears minor. Then, promptly contact Info-Santé at 811 for appropriate medical follow-up.In the Cree Territory of James Bay, Nunavik, Nord-du-Québec, and the Côte-Nord, quickly contact your local medical clinic.
  • If your pet has been in contact with an animal suspected of carrying rabies or shows signs of the disease: Isolate it and promptly call 1-844-ANIMAUX (264-6289) for appropriate instructions.In the Cree Territory of James Bay and Nunavik, contact the local animal control officer or vaccinator.
  • In case of an attack by a wild animal or if a wild animal poses an immediate threat to your safety or that of others, contact SOS Poaching – Wildlife Emergency at 1-800-463-2191.In the Cree Territory of James Bay and Nunavik, contact local public safety or your Uumajuit warden.
  • If the presence of Arctic foxes becomes recurrent and problematic in your community, contact the Ministère’s customer service at 1-877-346-6763 or by email at services.clientele@mffp.gouv.qc.ca or assistance regarding wildlife population management and best practices for coexistence.

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