"Newborn Fox Startled by Humans"… US Animal Center Staff Wearing 'Yeowoo Masks'

At a wildlife center in the United States, employees wearing fox masks have become a topic of interest. They are reportedly wearing the fox masks intentionally to care for a newborn baby fox.

According to foreign media including the U.S. daily The Washington Post (WP), a newborn baby fox was admitted to a wildlife center in Richmond, Virginia. In a video released by the center, the small baby fox, which has not yet opened its eyes, is seen eagerly drinking milk from a syringe. The staff member feeding the fox was wearing a 'fox mask,' and a fluffy stuffed toy was placed next to the baby fox.

The center began using the masks because if the baby fox imprints on or becomes accustomed to human appearances, it may have difficulty adapting when released back into the wild later. The center stated, "The masks are worn to prevent the baby fox from seeing human faces while being fed." The center staff wear fox masks while feeding the baby fox and take turns caring for it. They are also minimizing speaking to avoid the fox becoming familiar with human voices.

[Image source=Richmond Wildlife Center]

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The baby fox was found by a man walking his pet dog and brought to the center. The baby fox was transferred to the center within 24 hours of birth, still attached to its umbilical cord. The center said, "The baby fox weighed only 80 grams, had no teeth yet, and its eyes were still closed."

The center is currently protecting the rescued baby fox together with other foxes of similar age. However, if approved by authorities, it will be released back into the wild.

Local netizens who saw the video responded with comments such as "A heartwarming video," "A good idea," and "I hope the baby fox lives a healthy and long life."

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