ODNR confirms mange-infected foxes in Troy

TROY — The Ohio Department of Natural Resources is looking into reports of foxes with mange in the City of Troy.

ODNR State Wildlife Officer Grossnickle has received several reports of foxes with mange, according to a post on the Troy Police Department’s Facebook page.

Mange is a skin disease caused by microscopic mites that burrow into the skin, according to Cornell University.

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The specific type of mange is likely Sarcoptic Mange due to its relationship to wild canids such as red foxes, coyotes, gray wolves, and red wolves.

Signs of Sarcoptic Mange often include hair thinning, hair loss, and wrinkling and thickening of the skin. This can lead to scabs and foul-smelling crusts from secondary infections with bacteria and yeast.

Avoid direct contact because the disease is contagious to both humans and pets.

Foxes with mange are more likely to be seen out during daylight hours.

Troy Police say, “nuisance animals may only be euthanized per ODNR regulations. We certainly welcome and prefer wildlife centers and rehabbers help with these situations if they are available.”

More information about mange can be found here.

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