Foxes in Maryland: where to look and what signs to watch for

Foxes are widespread across Maryland. Both red foxes and gray foxes live here, with red foxes more visible in open country and gray foxes staying closer to wooded areas. You have good odds of seeing one if you know where to look.

Your best bet is the Piedmont region (central Maryland) and the Coastal Plain, especially where farm fields meet forest edges. Look around the Catoctin Mountains, Patuxent Research Refuge, and the Eastern Shore. Gray foxes prefer dense woods, so try the Appalachian region. Check out the Maryland wildlife hub for more regional tips.

Foxes are crepuscular, meaning most active at dawn and dusk. However, in rural areas they may hunt during the day, especially when feeding pups in spring. If you want a sighting, get out early morning or late afternoon. Winter is also a good time because they are more visible against snow.

See our state animal guide for the next step.

Fox tracks are oval, about 1.5 to 2.5 inches long, with four toes and visible claw marks. The pad is shaped like a chevron. Look for them in mud, sand, or snow along field edges and trails. They often walk in a straight line, unlike dogs. For more on fox identification nationwide, see the /animals/fox page.

Late winter and early spring are prime times. January through March is mating season, so foxes are more active and vocal. Summer is good for spotting kits near dens, but you need to keep your distance. Fall sees juveniles dispersing, increasing sightings in new areas.