Main Idea: These scientists are examining a type of fox that is in danger. By capturing and counting the foxes, they are trying to help them survive.

Elaboration: These biologists are examining the island fox, a type of fox that lives on islands near the coast of California. The island fox faces danger from predators that have been introduced to the islands. The biggest threat to the foxes is the golden eagle. It is mostly responsible for the recent decrease in the island fox population.

The island fox is about the size of a house cat. It does not mind being handled by humans. This makes it easier for scientists to capture island foxes, count them, release them, and help them. Scientists hope to increase the number of island foxes by giving them safe places to breed and moving the golden eagle back to its original habitat.

island fox

golden eagle