What is a "hoary fox"?

The hoary fox, scientifically known as Lycalopex vetulus, is a small fox species native to South America. It has a distinctive appearance with a dense and soft coat that varies in color from gray to light brown, giving it a hoary or frosted appearance. The hoary fox has a slender body with a bushy tail, large ears, and a pointed snout. It is known for its agility and speed, and is primarily a solitary and nocturnal animal. The hoary fox feeds on a variety of prey, including small mammals, birds, insects, and fruits. It is also known to scavenge and has been observed eating carrion and human food in some areas. The hoary fox is well adapted to its habitats, which include savannas, grasslands, and shrublands, and it can also be found in human-modified landscapes such as agricultural areas. The hoary fox plays a role in its ecosystem as a predator, helping to control populations of small mammals and contributing to the balance of its natural habitats in South America.