Hi friends. Reef the fox here with your weekly “Reef’s Report.”
It’s been a while since I’ve reported on Isla, and that’s mostly because, well, I’ve been too busy trying to survive her. The tiny baby who came into my life on May 21 has officially evolved into a full-blown, snack-stealing, high-pitched screaming menace. She’s now the undisputed queen of chaos at Pawsitive Beginnings. She steals food from everyone, screams for no apparent reason and has zero remorse about either. My mother thinks it’s hilarious. I, on the other hand, am considering ear protection and online therapy.
This behavior isn’t random. We’ve officially entered what the fox world calls the “October crazies.” Every fall, especially in their first year, young foxes go through a hormonal roller coaster that turns them from adorable little fluffballs into rebellious teenagers with tails. Their instincts tell them it’s time to leave the den, claim territory and prepare for winter mating season.
Translation: chaos, shrieking and destruction of personal property.
It’s nature doing her thing, but it’s also the time of year when many people who thought foxes would make good pets start realizing they were mistaken. This is when a lot of pet foxes get surrendered or abandoned because they act (shockingly) like wild animals.
Here at the sanctuary, we embrace the madness. Mostly because we have no choice. Isla, however, is not your average case. She’s redefining the “October crazies.” This little red streak of terror has been benched from public appearances until further notice, what I like to call “behavioral rehabilitation.” Isla has two speeds: screaming and scheming.
Despite the chaos, I remind myself this is exactly how it’s supposed to be. Isla’s energy, attitude and wildness are part of what makes her her. She’s learning who she is, pushing every boundary and keeping us humble in the process. So yes, she’s loud. She’s dramatic. She’s benched. But she’s also thriving. And as for the rest of us? We’re just trying to make it through the “October crazies” with our sanity intact.
Anywho, that’s all for this week. Until next time, Reef, over and out!
