A decade since the ban on fox hunting in Britain, attitudes to foxes are more polarised than ever. The species is maligned and loved, and everything in between. It’s a relationship that hints to a broader, complex attitude towards nature. Hunts continue despite the ban with people holding on to traditions and what they see as their right to hold sway over nature. Gamekeepers and farmers control fox numbers to minimise loss of stock and protect profits. Elsewhere, foxes are adapting to our towns, to people’s unease. Stories of foxes attacking people in their homes have fuelled the debate. Yet, foxes have an army of people willing to give money or time or to put themselves in harms way for their protection. It’s a fascinating time to be witnessing how Britain interacts with the fox. Only one thing remains certain – the fox will adapt and endure, as it always has.
