Collaborating for kit foxes 

GRAND JUNCTION, CO – The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Grand Junction Field Office and Center for Native Ecosystems (CNE) are joining forces to build 35 artificial dens with “quick escape” tunnels in an effort to curb critically low kit fox populations in the valley.  Den sites are strategically chosen to enhance survival rates for the native kit fox, which is listed as a Colorado State endangered species.  Staff biologists from the BLM and CNE will install the dens on Tue, June 21.

 “BLM is excited to be partnering with the Center for Native Ecosystems on this critical on-the-ground conservation project,” BLM Wildlife Biologist Ron Lambeth said.  “Together we can provide an adequate number of artificial dens that will provide a secure place for the kit fox, giving it the edge it desperately needs.”

 "We are thrilled about the opportunity to work hand in hand with the BLM to help recover this endangered Colorado State native," said Erin Robertson, Staff Biologist for Center for Native Ecosystems.

 Biologists believe that once wolves were removed from the valley in the early 1900s, the coyote and non-native, larger red fox quickly began to depress kit fox populations.

 Dens are constructed of durable material and are designed to prevent entry by animals larger than kit foxes.  The den’s design also reduces heat and moisture build-up, and size allows room for complete litters.  A hole approximately 5 feet deep is dug for a doghouse to be buried under 3 feet of dirt.  Corrugated flexible 8-inch pipe, 10 feet long, provide for the den’s two entrance tunnels and a “quick escape.”

 For more information on this project, contact BLM Wildlife Biologist Ron Lambeth at 970-244-3013, or CNE Staff Biologist Erin Robertson at 303-546-0214, or online at http://www.nativeecosystems.org. 

 Editor’s Note:  Onsite interviews and photo opportunities are available.  Contact Mel Lloyd for additional details.

 -BLM-