Species profile
About this species
The bat-eared fox is a small canid native to the African savanna, instantly recognisable by its enormous ears which can measure up to 13 cm in length. These remarkable ears serve a dual purpose, aiding in thermoregulation & providing exceptional hearing to locate insect prey, particularly termites & dung beetles. They are highly social animals, often seen in pairs or small family groups foraging across open grasslands.
Bat-eared foxes inhabit open, arid & semi-arid savanna grasslands, scrublands & short-grass plains of eastern & southern Africa, favouring areas with abundant termite activity & short vegetation that allows them to spot predators easily.
Where to photograph
Where our trips feature this species
You can photograph Bat-eared Fox with us in Kenya.
These departures are part of our Africa programme.
In the field, David Miles & Pui Hang Miles helps guests make the most of these encounters.
Field notes
Photography notes
The best time to photograph bat-eared foxes is during the early morning & late afternoon hours when they are most active foraging for insects. The dry season between May & October in East & southern Africa offers excellent visibility as vegetation is sparse, making it easier to spot & photograph them in their natural habitat.
Position yourself low to the ground using a beanbag or prone position to achieve eye-level shots that create a more intimate & engaging perspective. Use a long telephoto lens of at least 400mm to avoid disturbing the animals, as they are alert & will move away if approached too closely. Focus on capturing their distinctive oversized ears in sharp detail, particularly during interactions between family members or when they adopt an alert, upright posture.
Available holidays
Trips featuring Bat-eared Fox
The holidays below are pulled from the same species relationship, so the guide stays tied to live departures rather than becoming a static article.