Foxy Lady

**Hillbillygirl** · 01-22-2011, 09:23 PM

Came across these two sitting in the field on a drive today. Noticed the Vixen posturing to the dog, so sat around for what was a first for us. They were approx. 300 yards out, and was shot out window of car.
Hope none are offended, as I think it is remarkable to capture such a moment.

**Matt K.** · 01-22-2011, 10:23 PM

Wonderful captures. Love the third one of the series.

**Bambi** · 01-22-2011, 11:28 PM

these are great. I am not sure I understand the behavior in the third shot but my knowledge of fox breeding is somewhat lacking. They both look satisfied though

**Andrew** · 01-23-2011, 12:47 AM

Bambi, the behavior in the third shot is not really a behavior, so to speak. In this kind of encounter male body parts of canines swell to the point that separation is not possible for awhile. Conjecture is that the purpose is to insure reproduction is limited to the first partner which would normally be the dominant male. Survival of the fittest. There endeth the lesson.

**Hillbillygirl** · 01-23-2011, 06:10 AM

Thanks for the compliments on the shots Matt, and Bambi.
Andrew, you are correct about the swelling part, but, the female can actually become impregnated by several different dogs from subsequent breedings, no matter if she has already been successfully bred prior. You can actually have two to three different fathers of the same litter if you are not careful.
The mating tie ensures that the sperm will get inside the vagina and that the female dog will be impregnated. Since the dogs are stuck together the male will be able to finish releasing his sperm. The mating tie prevents sperm leakage.
When we breed our Cao de Fila de Sao Miguels they tie for 30-35 minutes, every time.

**Wicked Dark** · 01-23-2011, 09:29 AM

terrific photos. I've hardly ever seen foxes never mind them mating. they're just so shy down here.

**JAS_Photo** · 01-23-2011, 12:27 PM

Very cool captures, HBgirl! I love the first one with the two foxes are looking right at the camera.

**Donna** · 01-23-2011, 05:04 PM

So neat to see and capture such a rare sight .

The first photo is outstanding on it's own .. A beautiful capture!! ... to catch the two of them in such a nice pose at the same time , in such a very pleasing and complementry setting as the snow and dried grass makes .