Wild animals on construction sites: Dealing cleverly with cunning foxes

Conspicuous signs of a fox on the construction site are torn insulation packages or garbage bags, fox tracks or fox droppings. "Sometimes you can also hear the red-furred wild animals. They communicate in a cute, sometimes loud way," explains Tommy Well. "They are very social and fascinating creatures."

Construction sites are a welcome retreat for foxes. "As these can often not be cordoned off at all or only inadequately, the animals have easy access." It is not uncommon for them to find a rich supply of food there – such as leftovers, rats or mice, which are among the fox's favorite foods.

As exciting as the animals are – a fox on the construction site also entails risks:

- Risk of being bitten 
- Risk of transmitting diseases such as mange or fox tapeworm 
- Damaged material

There is also an often underestimated aspect: foxes are wild animals and are subject to hunting laws. The closed season between March and June is particularly sensitive. If there are young animals in the construction site, this can quickly become a serious issue for the construction process – in the worst case, construction operations would have to be halted.

The situation becomes particularly critical when females book the "comfort hotel construction site with full board" and set up a den in a niche or raised floor to give birth to their young. From this moment on, the situation becomes complex: relocation is often not permitted and, in unfavorable cases, the animals may be killed. This is a scenario that could often be avoided with early action.

Prevention is the best recipe: "Consistent waste disposal and cleanliness management in cooperation with the building owners plays a decisive role in preventing wild animals from using construction sites as 'fast food restaurants'," emphasizes Tommy Well. If food scraps, waste and open materials are disposed of properly, the attraction to animals can be significantly reduced. This is because there is often an animal chain of succession: smaller animals such as mice or birds are attracted first, followed later by larger wild animals such as foxes. "This is precisely where BCL-Logistik takes on an important advisory role and helps to implement preventative measures early and effectively."

If there is an animal on the construction site, it is important to handle it calmly and professionally. Wild animals should never be harassed or cornered. An open escape route remains central.

In addition, the relevant authorities or specialized wildlife rescue services should be called in at an early stage. If the latter have the necessary permits, they can also assess the situation professionally and take the fox away.

If young animals are already present, the protection of the animals is paramount. Wildlife cameras or thermal imaging technology help to locate possible dens without causing additional stress to the animals.

"Above all, it is important to only call in qualified specialists and to always put the welfare of the animals first," emphasizes Tommy Well. In this way, the situation can be resolved as safely and responsibly as possible for both humans and animals.