Fox Kits in Yellowstone, One with some Melanism Check out these two Red Fox siblings. One of them is showing some melanism, a genetic mutation that results in an increased amount of dark pigmentation, making his/her fur appear black or significantly darker than the typical red and white of the species. Melanism in red foxes, scientifically known as *Vulpes vulpes*, is much less common than in other species, such as the black panther, which is a melanistic form of leopards or jaguars. In red foxes, this trait is particularly rare and is the result of a recessive allele. This means that both of the parents must carry this allele to produce a melanistic offspring like this one, a genetic combination that is uncommon in the wild.

Fox Kits in Yellowstone, one showing some Melanism

Check out these two Red Fox siblings. One of them is showing some melanism, a genetic mutation that results in

Continue readingFox Kits in Yellowstone, one showing some Melanism