Spotted an Arabian red fox in Abu Dhabi? Don't feed it, chase it or leave food scraps outside. These animals are usually shy and help control rodents, Khaleej Times reports. Give them space, secure your rubbish bins and let them get on with their business.

The details

Residents in Abu Dhabi have been given guidance on how to respond when they encounter Arabian red foxes in neighbourhoods, farms and outdoor areas.

The Department of Municipalities and Transport says the animals are naturally timid and generally prefer to avoid contact with people.

Arabian red foxes can be found across the emirate, including desert habitats, agricultural areas and increasingly urban neighbourhoods.

Residents are advised to observe them calmly from a safe distance rather than approaching, handling or feeding them.

Food scraps and unsecured rubbish bins can attract foxes to residential areas.

Authorities recommend keeping bins closed, managing outdoor pet food responsibly and using appropriate fencing to protect livestock and pets.

Motion-activated lighting and other humane deterrents can also help discourage foxes from entering properties.

The authority cautions against removing or killing foxes as a routine solution. Such actions may not resolve the underlying problem because another animal can occupy the same territory.

Foxes play an important ecological role by feeding on rodents, insects and other small animals.

The advice is intended to help residents coexist safely with native wildlife rather than treat every sighting as a threat.