In 2025, the WRL helpline received a large number of calls regarding foxes with advanced mange. Mange is a highly contagious skin disease caused by parasitic mites and has been reported to have infected over 100 species of pets and wildlife. In Virginia, mange is most commonly seen in canidae like foxes and coyotes. Red foxes are the most severely affected animals.
The mites that cause mange burrow into the outer layers of their hosts’ skin, and form tunnels where they lay eggs. The eggs then hatch, and the larvae move to the surface of the skin, or they continue to burrow new tunnels further into the skin. The resulting symptoms in foxes is hair thinning and loss, thickened skin, scarring, scabs, and a foul smell due to overgrowth of yeast and bacteria. Advanced mange in the facial area can result in blindness, hearing loss, and loss of appetite. Mange is often deadly for red foxes.
What can you do if you encounter a fox with mange? First, call the WRL Helpline at (703) 440-0800. Mange is treatable, and WRL is lucky to have several partner rehabilitators who are trained in mange care for foxes. Please do not attempt to treat the fox yourself. Please see this WRL article on foxes for more information. Together we can make 2026 a healthier and more mange-free year for Virginia foxes!
Written by Elizabeth O’Malley
Elizabeth O’Malley is a WRL Transporter and columnist. She loves plants, pottery, and powerlifting.
