Re-evaluation of the evidence for the importation of red foxes from Europe to colonial America: Origins of the southeastern red fox (Vulpes vulpes fulva)

► Vulpes vulpes fulva is thought to be descended from animals imported from Europe. ► I found no reliable evidence for importation of red foxes into the eastern US. ► Reasons for changes in distribution and abundance should be reconsidered. ► Conservation and management should be predicated on native status of the red fox. ► Verifying original references can prevent proliferation of inaccurate information.