Last Updated: March 14, 2024, 16:15 IST
Executive Director Melissa Stanley wore a fox mask and rubber gloves to feed the cub. (Photo Credits: Facebook)
The workers minimise human sounds, create visual barriers, reduce handling and multiple transfers amongst different facilities, and wear masks while taking care of rescued animals.
Nobody nurtures quite like a mother, but some dedicated workers at the Richmond Wildlife Center located in Virginia are doing their best to imitate the care provided by mother foxes to their babies. The employees at the center have been feeding and nursing an orphaned kit fox that has come into their care. Shared via the center’s official Facebook page on Tuesday, a heartwarming and now-viral video shows Executive Director Melissa Stanley adorned in a red fox mask and rubber gloves, tenderly feeding the tiny kit through a syringe.
“It’s important to make sure that the orphans that are raised in captivity do not become imprinted upon or habituated to humans,” the organisation explained in a descriptive caption accompanying the video. “To prevent that, we minimise human sounds, create visual barriers, reduce handling, reduce multiple transfers amongst different facilities, and wear masks for the species,” it further added.
Initially mistaking the kit for an abandoned kitten, the center later discovered that it was a neonatal fox kit in need of urgent care. “Her umbilicus stump is still attached. She weighs just 80 grams, her teeth are not in, her eyes are sealed, and she is deaf at this age. She is barely 24 hours old,” the organisation told The Washington Post while describing the kit’s fragile state upon rescue.
In subsequent updates, the center reported positive progress in the kit’s development. “Many thanks to everyone who has supported the Red Fox Kit. She is progressing well,” they added.
Watch the video here:
According to reports by CNBC, staff members take turns wearing the fox mask during feedings, ensuring consistent care while maintaining the kit’s wild instincts. Additionally, the caretakers have also kept a stuffed toy near the cub to further enhance its sense of security and familiarity.
Since its online debut, the heartwarming video has garnered significant attention, amassing thousands of views and likes across various social media platforms.
Post the cub’s recovery, Richmond Wildlife Center plans to reunite it with its own species. “If they should be transferred to us, or if we should transfer ours to them. Either way, it’s in the best interest of this Fox to get it with other foxes her own age.” reads their Facebook page.