Aleutian Fox in Winter, Unalaska Island Postcard

Foxes were brought to the Aleutian Islands by the Russians during their occupation of Alaska as supplimental fur trade animals. They have thrived on the island and come into town in winter to steal pet food and scavenge for scraps. They also control the population of rats on the island. Aleutian foxes come in many colors: red, blond, salt and pepper colored, and rarely, black. This red fox was looking for food and posed for the camera in anticipation of a handout. They are accomplished beggars as well as scavengers. The group of Aleutian Islands where the foxes were introduced became known as the Fox Islands. Unalaska is a part of this group.