Kuwait’s deserts host a thriving population of Arabian red foxes, the largest fox species in the Arabian Peninsula, according to the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA).

The Environment Public Authority (EPA) has documented the widespread presence of the Arabian red fox, the largest fox species in the Arabian Peninsula and locally known as “Al-Hesni,” across Kuwait’s desert areas.

The Environment Public Authority (EPA) has documented the species’ presence in northern areas such as North Salmi and Mutlaa, as well as southern desert regions and nature reserves, including Al-Jahra and Sabah Al-Ahmad, KUNA reports.

Dr. Abdullah Al-Zaidan, Deputy Director General of the Technical Affairs Sector, explained to KUNA that researchers have used wildlife cameras and drones to monitor the species. The Arabian red fox, one of the most common desert mammals, often inhabits areas near urban centers, camps, and human settlements, where food is readily available.

Well-adapted to harsh desert climates, the fox tolerates extreme temperatures ranging from over 50°C in summer to near freezing in winter. Males are typically larger than females, with adults reaching up to one meter in body length, 40 cm in tail length, and weighing between 2.7 and 4.5 kilograms. These nocturnal animals live in underground burrows and are less active during the day.

Native to the Arabian Peninsula, the Arabian red fox is widespread across Kuwait, Oman, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Syria, and Yemen.

The EPA, in partnership with the Scientific Center under the Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences (KFAS), is working on rehabilitation programs to release the species back into its natural habitats.

The Arabian red fox is listed under Appendix III of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) to regulate the fur trade and is classified as “Least Concern” on the IUCN Red List. Dr. Al-Zaidan reaffirmed the EPA’s commitment to preserving Kuwait’s ecosystems, reducing habitat destruction, and ensuring the sustainability of native wildlife for future generations, KUNA reports.

Source Gulf News