Spatiotemporal Activity and Farmers’ Perception of the Red Fox in a Regional Reserve of Central Italy: A Case Study

Abstract

In line with the Italian “Farmers-Nature Project” aimed at reducing conflicts between wild predators and livestock farmers, the spatiotemporal activity of the red fox was monitored in a protected area of central Italy over a one-year period. In parallel, farmers living in the study area were asked to participate in an interview about their perception of the red fox and its predatory activity towards livestock. Analysis of data obtained by camera trapping revealed that a higher number of red fox sightings was recorded in February and March in relation to the search for food, while a lower number was recorded in July when food is more abundant. Red fox primarily moves at night, with a peak of activity between 9 and 10 p.m., staying around an area close to the den. Interviews with farmers revealed a generally positive view of the red fox, as its predation on livestock was rare, suggesting that the fox can find sufficient food resources in the environment.