However, familiarity should not be confused with trust.
A fox that appears relaxed around a person may simply have learned that the person is not an immediate threat. It can still react defensively if approached, startled, cornered, or disturbed while resting.
For that reason, wildlife organizations generally recommend observing foxes from a respectful distance and avoiding attempts to touch, chase, or hand-feed them.
Feeding can be especially problematic. When wild animals repeatedly receive food from people, they may begin approaching houses, waiting near doors, or searching for food in places where they would not normally look.
That behavior can put them at risk.
A fox that approaches one person looking for food might encounter another person who is frightened of wildlife. It could also wander closer to busy roads, enter unfamiliar properties, or have unpleasant encounters with domestic animals.
In some circumstances, an animal that repeatedly causes problems around homes may be subjected to removal or other management measures.
