What is the scientific name for a red fox? The red fox scientific name is Vulpes vulpes.
The scientific name for the red fox is one of the most searched terms in animal taxonomy because the red fox is one of the most widely distributed wild mammals on Earth. Many students, wildlife enthusiasts, and bloggers seek the red fox’s scientific name, biological classification, characteristics, habitat, diet, size, age, and color details in a single, clear source. This guide presents verified biological facts using simple language.
The red fox lives across several continents and adapts to forests, grasslands, mountains, and cities. Scientists classify the red fox using a formal taxonomy system that gives each species a universal Latin name. That name helps researchers avoid confusion across regions and languages.
What is the Scientific Name for a Red Fox?
The red fox scientific name is Vulpes vulpes. This binomial name comes from Latin taxonomy rules used in zoology. The first term shows the genus. The second term shows the species.
Red Fox Scientific Name Pronunciation and Meaning
- Pronunciation: VUL-peez VUL-peez
- Language origin: Latin
- Meaning: “Vulpes” means fox. The repeated term shows the base species of that genus.
Scientists follow binomial nomenclature rules set by the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature. This system ensures that each animal has an accepted scientific label.
Biological Classification of Red Fox
| Taxonomic Rank | Red Fox Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Mammalia |
| Order | Carnivora |
| Family | Canidae |
| Genus | Vulpes |
| Species | vulpes |
The genus Vulpes includes true fox species. The red fox’s scientific name appears in wildlife databases, zoology books, and conservation records. Researchers use the scientific name of the red fox instead of common names to maintain accuracy.

