Determination of feeding patterns and seasonal and daily activities of red fox (Vulpes vulpes L. 1758) in Beytepe (Ankara)

In this study, seasonal and daily activity patterns of the red foxes living in Beytepe Campus (Ankara), is a semi-urban region, were investigated at different habitat types. In order to determine the activity patterns, camera traps were used in two habitats consisting of coniferous forest and transitional woodland-scrub. The feeding characteristic of the red fox was determined by examining the scats collected from both habitats. Beside the red fox, mammal species such as European hare (Lepus europaeus), hedgehog (Erinaceus concolor), stone marten (Martes foina), domestic dog (Canis lupus familiaris) and domestic cat (Felis domesticus) were also recorded. According to the results, it is revealed that the red fox, European hare, hedgehog and stone marten were nocturnal and the domestic dog was diurnal. The maximum activity of the red fox was recorded in between 18:00 and 20:00; whereas the minimum activity was recorded in between 10:00 and 12:00. There was no statistically significant difference between daily activity pattern of the red fox among the camera trap stations, however, there was a significant difference between daytime periods. As considered seasonally, red foxes were found to be much more active in the autumn and winter periods than they do in other time of the year. According to the results of macroscopic scat analysis, it was determined that fruits, small mammals, birds and insects are the basic food items in the red fox diet in Beytepe Campus. Whereas, according to in the scat content examination, the red fox fed mainly on vegetative food items in the autumn period. It has been shown that the food composition of the red fox in autumn did not change significantly with the habitat type and the effect of human density. As a result, the maintenance and balance of the wildlife in the Beytepe Campus, which has semi-urban characteristics, depends on the survival of the wild species. It is thought that the outcomes of this study will contribute to landscape arrangements and management plans for the continuity of wildlife in Beytepe , and especially for the survival of the red foxes.