Downhill Kayaking: Chasing the Gray Fox

Deep in the gorges of northern Alabama, one might catch a glimpse of a rarity that is unknown to most of the general public. Some residents of cities and towns throughout this region may occasionally see a flash out of the corner of their eye, but never know what it is that they saw. However, among the lucky and diligent few who choose to venture into the remote river canyons in the area, sightings are common and the Gray Fox is well known.

Recently I joined a group of young researches attempting to follow the elusive Alabama Gray Fox into the depths of the Jones Creek gorge. Jones creek flows west off of Sand Mountain in northern Alabama and cuts a deep and rugged canyon. We knew the journey wouldn’t be easy, but getting to observe the Gray Fox in its natural environment would be a special treat and surely help us to further our research.

The other researchers and I made every attempt to keep up with the Gray Fox as we were led us deeper and deeper into the gorge. By following the Gray Fox and watching it’s every move we hoped to gain a better understanding of its migration patterns through this and other river canyons. As we observed, we attempted to mimic its motions and follow its routes through the gorge. We hope that our research will help us (and the world) more fully understand why the Gray Fox makes such frequent journeys through such difficult terrain and how its passage is achieved so effortlessly.

After completing this most recent episode in our ongoing research of the Alabama Gray Fox, the research team has put forward the following hypothesis’ about the Gray Fox.

1.The Gray Fox undoubtedly prefers to inhabit steep river gorges and seems to find flat land unfavorable to it’s lifestyle.

2.The Gray Fox is physically well suited to it’s environment, nimble through rough terrain and able to move smoothly and deliberately regardless of the challenges ahead. It’s specially adapted reflexes and quick burst of speed enable it to proceed wherever it desires.

3.The Gray Fox has an abundant knowledge about the best route through each of the rugged river canyons in which we have been able to conduct observations*.

*We were unable to ascertain if this route finding knowledge is instinctual, passed on through generations, or if the Gray Fox simply remembers the routes from previous journeys.

Photos By Charlie Mix...

Below: One of only 2 existing photos of the Gray Fox in it's natural environment...