The white Arctic fox that captured the attention of Oregonians last month when spotted roaming Portland is now headed to a new, more appropriate home. Abandoning the chill of the Arctic for the evergreens of the Pacific Northwest might seem whimsical, but for this fox, it’s no fairy tale outcome. After being found near Sellwood Bridge in southeastern Portland, the non-native wayfarer will not return to the wild but is instead Wisconsin-bound, set to join a male partner at a specialized facility,
KOIN reported
.
As charming as her puppy-esque appearance might be, the reality of her situation is nothing short of bleak – an Arctic creature misplaced in an urban setting, a stark reminder of the illicit pet trade’s impact on exotic wildlife. According to the Bird Alliance of Oregon, which took the furry refugee under its wing, the fox likely was abandoned by an owner ill-equipped to provide her with the proper care, as reported by
The News Tribune
. In earnest, officials reiterate that despite her adaptability, this arctic dweller can’t fend for herself in her native tundra after a life in captivity.
The Oregon Department of Agriculture, actively seeking a safe haven for the fox, found an accredited sanctuary where she can thrive without the threats that domestication and an unforgiving wild would pose. It’s a delicate balance, transitioning from a former pet to an environment simulating her natural habitat, but one that rescuers believe is paramount for her well-being. The fox, as reported by the Bird Alliance of Oregon, is currently in good health and has shown resilience throughout this ordeal.
One Sarah Gilmore, talking to
KPTV
, expressed both relief and a stern warning: “It’s wonderful to see her thriving, but this fox should never have been a pet.” Gilmore emphasizes the complex needs of such wild animals are often beyond the capabilities of average pet owners to fulfill, thwarting natural behaviors and jeopardizing both animal and human safety. The Arctic Fox’s saga serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of keeping wildlife as pets, operational only by those with specific expertise within the confines of licensed facilities.
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