Ancient Humans in Patagonia May Have Kept Extinct Foxes as Companions, Study Finds

A recent archaeological discovery in Argentina suggests a significant bond between humans and the now-extinct fox species Dusicyon avus, challenging previous theories about their extinction.

A new study reveals that ancient humans in Patagonia, Argentina, may have kept the now-extinct fox species Dusicyon avus as pets or companions, about 1,500 years ago.
The discovery was made at the Cañada Seca burial site, where a fox was found buried alongside human remains, suggesting a significant relationship between the two.
Analysis of the fox's diet showed it was similar to that of the humans, indicating it was either fed by the humans or fed on their refuse.
The absence of cut marks on the fox's bones suggests it was not hunted for food, reinforcing the idea of a non-utilitarian relationship.
The study challenges previous theories that the fox went extinct due to breeding with domestic dogs, as genetic analysis indicates the fox could likely breed with dogs, producing fertile offspring.