WDFW seeks comment on status report for Cascade red fox

OLYMPIA – The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is seeking public input on its draft status report for the Cascade red fox.

The Department is recommending classifying Cascade red fox as threatened due its vulnerability to existing and potential threats such as climate change, small population size, and competition with other carnivores.

Although there appears to be suitable habitat for Cascade red fox throughout the Cascade Range, surveys have indicated no resident population north of the Interstate 90 corridor. A small population persists in the southwest Cascades, less than 50% of its historical range in the state.

The draft status report for the Cascade red fox is available for review at WDFW’s publications webpage. The public can provide comments on the drafts through May 19, 2022. 

"This is a species only found in Washington, and we are concerned about its status and the threats facing the declining and vulnerable population," said Taylor Cotten, WDFW conservation assessment manager.

The public can submit written comments on the review and recommendation via email or by mail to Taylor Cotten, Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, P.O. Box 43141, Olympia, WA 98504-3200.

WDFW prepares status reports to recommend endangered, threatened, and sensitive status for species of conservation concern. If listed, WDFW prepares recovery plans to guide conservation and recovery efforts and periodically reviews the status of protected species in the state.

WDFW works to preserve, protect and perpetuate fish, wildlife and ecosystems while providing sustainable fish and wildlife recreational and commercial opportunities.