Foxes are notorious for raiding rubbish bins and preying on pets and are widely regarded as a nuisance.
But according to a study, they used to be man’s best friend. Researchers analyzed remains found in an ancient cemetery in Patagonia, Argentina, dating back to 450 AD.
Although it contained the skeletons of 18 adults and six children, there was also evidence that an ancient species of fox was buried there alongside the humans.
Analysis showed that foxes were buried in the same graves and had a similar diet as humans, indicating a close relationship.
The fox species discovered – Dusicyon avus – was about the size of a German shepherd, but is now extinct.
Foxes are notorious for raiding garbage cans and preying on pets. They are generally considered a nuisance (stock image)
But according to a study, they were once man’s best friend (Stock Image)
The researchers, including scientists from the University of Oxford, suggest the fox may have been a companion animal for hunter-gatherers.
However, they believe that the introduction of the modern dog has led to their decline as a companion animal.
The study, published in the journal Royal Society Open Science, said: ‘The simultaneous burial of humans and foxes is a rare archaeological record worldwide and suggests cultural or symbolic significance.
‘Although the reasons for its inclusion in a mortuary context remain unclear, the most plausible explanation is that this fox was a valuable companion to hunter-gatherer groups.
‘Its strong association with human individuals during its lifetime would have been the main factor for its placement as a graveyard after the death of its owners or the people with whom it interacted.’