Effects of top nest box on growth, fur quality and behaviour of blue foxes (alopex lagopus) during their growing season

Abstract

The effects of a top nest box on production‐related parameters and behaviour were examined in a field trial on four groups of 24 growing blue fox cubs from weaning until pelting. Control animals had a wire mesh platform. There were no differences in weight gain between groups. Dirtiness of nest boxes decreased towards the end of the season. By October, over 90% of the boxes were scored as acceptable. Fur quality tended to be lower in nest box groups, due to staining from faeces and urine. Use of the nest boxes seemed to depend more on the individual animal rather than its species. Three individuals (out of 20) accounted for almost one half (48%) of the total use, while the 12 least enthusiastic users accounted for less than 5% of the total use (as assessed by video recording). The enthusiastic users were mainly in the box at night. In the feeding and disturbance tests, more individuals from the nest box groups showed fear‐related reactions. A transparent front wall did not reduce the number of timid individuals. Fearfulness resulting from nest box history is a negative feature from both practical and animal welfare points of view.