<P> The red fox originated from smaller - sized ancestors from Eurasia during the Middle Villafranchian period , and colonised North America shortly after the Wisconsin glaciation . Among the true foxes , the red fox represents a more progressive form in the direction of carnivory . Apart from its large size , the red fox is distinguished from other fox species by its ability to adapt quickly to new environments . Despite its name , the species often produces individuals with other colourings , including albinos and melanists . Forty - five subspecies are currently recognised , which are divided into two categories : the large northern foxes , and the small , basal southern foxes of Asia and North Africa . </P>
<P> The red fox originated from smaller - sized ancestors from Eurasia during the Middle Villafranchian period , and colonised North America shortly after the Wisconsin glaciation . Among the true foxes , the red fox represents a more progressive form in the direction of carnivory . Apart from its large size , the red fox is distinguished from other fox species by its ability to adapt quickly to new environments . Despite its name , the species often produces individuals with other colourings , including albinos and melanists . Forty - five subspecies are currently recognised , which are divided into two categories : the large northern foxes , and the small , basal southern foxes of Asia and North Africa . </P>
how many different species of fox are there
how many different species of fox are there
Forty - five
Forty - five