Swift fox (Vulpes velox) COSEWIC assessment and status report 2009: chapter 1


COSEWIC assessment summary

Assessment summary – November 2009

Common name:

Swift Fox

Scientific name:
Vulpes velox

Status:
Threatened

Reason for designation:
This species was extirpated from Canada in the 1930s. Following reintroduction programs in Alberta and Saskatchewan initiated in 1983, they have re–established populations in these areas and in northern Montana. Population numbers and distribution have increased since that time, with the current estimate in Canada having doubled to 647 since the last COSEWIC assessment in 2000. Connectivity between populations has also improved during this time, particularly through northern Montana. Since 2001, population numbers and distribution have remained stable and habitat for this species within Canada appears to be saturated. Most improvement in overall population status can be attributed to populations in Montana, which are still demonstrating increasing trends in numbers and distribution. Deteriorating habitat in Canada and the threat of disease (as seen in other canids) could threaten the continued recovery of this species.

Occurrence:
Alberta, Saskatchewan

Status history:
Last seen in Saskatchewan in 1928. Designated Extirpated in April 1978. Status re–examined and designated Endangered in April 1998 after successful re–introductions. Status re–examined and confirmed in May 2000. Status re–examined and designated Threatened in November 2009.

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