What is a "island fox"?

The island fox is a small carnivorous mammal that is native to the Channel Islands of California. It is known for its small size, with adults weighing only 3-5 pounds on average, making it one of the smallest wild canids in North America. The island fox has a distinctive appearance, with a thick coat that comes in various color morphs, including gray, brown, and black, often with unique markings on its face, ears, and tail. These foxes have adapted to the unique environments of the Channel Islands and have evolved into different subspecies on each island, resulting in some level of genetic and physical diversity among populations. Island foxes are known for their ability to adapt to the island ecosystems, their resourcefulness in finding food, and their unique behaviors, making them a fascinating species to study and conserve.