They are praised by hunters, houndsmen and trappers and cursed by poultrymen and small game hunters; considered to be both prey and predator. Occasionally the reduction of fox populations is due to rabies, distemper and mange. 

A rusty yellow color is characteristic along the upper surface; legs, side of neck, and back of ears. The tip of the tail is black streak down the tail. Weighing in at about 7-13 lbs., the head and body length ranges between 21-29 inches; whereas the tail alone can be 11-16 inches long. 

A distinguishing feature is the ability to climb trees. The Gray Fox is more nocturnal than the red fox but - will occasionally hunt during the day. They've been recorded running speeds of 28 mph for short distances. Living 10 years in captivity is not unusual, but shorter lives are expected in the wild. 

Habitats vary from fields to woods, similar to red fox but thicker areas. Preying mostly on small mammals, but will often add insects, fruits, acorns and eggs. 

At 1 year old females breed, and once per year after that. Breeding takes place from December to March. Litters are born approximately 53 days after breeding. As many as 7 pups have been born in one litter. Dens vary from log piles, hollowed ground and heavy brush areas, usually near water, with dense cover for the immediate area. 

The Gray Fox is found throughout the state of Georgia and is known to roam more than 50 miles from it's birth place.