65
occasionally larger numbers are seen together. These are probably
family parties, with groups numbering 3–15 individuals. In Oman they
occupy home ranges of about 50 sq km; elsewhere ranges may be
as small as 10 sq km. The fox is mostly nocturnal with some diurnal
activity. In Saudi Arabia mating takes place in December–February,
with young cubs being found there and in Western Sahara in March.
Litter size is reported from Saudi Arabia as usually 2–3 cubs.
Distribution and Status This small fox ranges right across the Sahara,
but is absent from the Atlas region. It is also present through suitable
habitat across the Middle East and the Arabian Peninsula, and across
Iran, but is absent from much of Syria and does not occur in Turkey.
In Iran it reaches its main distribution in the central deserts, the south
and towards the Pakistan border.
Conservation Areas Ahaggar NP, Tassili n’Ajjer NP (Algeria); Sidi
Toui NP (Tunisia); Nefhusa NP, Zellaf NR (Libya); Banc d’Arguin NP
(Mauritania); Aïr and Tenere NR (Niger); Gebel Elba CA (Egypt);
Maktesh Ramon NP, Tznifim NR (Israel); Mahazat as-Sayd, Harrat al’
Harrah, Uruq Bani Ma’arid (Saudi Arabia); Jiddat al Harasis (Oman);
Mehrouyeh WR (Iran).
PALE FOX Vulpes pallida
Identification This is a small, very pale fox with fairly long legs, large
ears, a pale face and dark eye-rings. The body fur is creamy-white
to sandy-fawn and sometimes exhibits a darker dorsal line. The
underparts are generally paler than the upperparts, and there is pale
rufous on the legs. The species sports a long, bushy, pale reddish-
brown tail with a distinctive black tip.
Size Shoulder height 25 cm.