Periparturient behaviour in farmed blue foxes (Alopex lagopus)

Our results confirm that the lack of maternal behaviour in farmed blue foxes is not a common problem. In the present study, behavioural problems such as infanticide were not observed. However, the cub losses were still relatively high. Accordingly, management in blue fox production needs evaluation and improvement to enhance cub survival. Therefore, we wish to emphasize the behavioural differences and farming practices between farmed blue and silver foxes. Moreover, we suggest that one should be cautious of extrapolating results from one species to another, even when those species are closely related.