The San Joaquin kit foxes (Vulpes macrotis mutica) in the San Joaquin Valley, California is further declining due to an outbreak of sarcoptic mange. Caused by a mite infestation, sarcoptic mange leads to hair loss, open wounds from scratching and is ultimately fatal to the foxes if left untreated. Originally identified within the urban San Joaquin Kit fox populations in Bakersfield, the epidemic has spread west, with infected foxes found as far west as McKittrick. Infected foxes can be treated and rehabilitated, but the process is costly and time-consuming. Foxes with mange often need months of treatment before they are healthy enough to be released.

The California Central Coast Chapter of The Wildlife Society is holding a fundraiser to assist with treatment of and further research on sarcoptic mange on the federally threatened San Joaquin kit fox. Please donate towards the San Joaquin kit fox conservation fund or buy a shirt today! All proceeds will go to the California Living Museum (CALM) in Bakersfield, California. CALM takes in, treats, and rehabilitates infected foxes for release back into the wild.

https://www.bonfire.com/save-the-san-joaquin-kit-fox/