One of the World’s Rarest Foxes Caught on Camera in Lassen Volcanic National Park
A Northern California wildlife photographer has captured rare footage of one of the world’s most elusive mammals: the critically endangered Sierra Nevada red fox.
Photographer Randy Robbins recently shared three clips on social media showing two different Sierra Nevada red foxes in Lassen Volcanic National Park. One of the foxes was seen wearing a tracking collar, likely placed by biologists. “Daytime footage like this is pretty darn rare,” Robbins said.
The footage, captured by a remote camera Robbins set up at 8,500 feet elevation, shows the foxes exploring rocky terrain—likely sniffing for rodents. While the camera was rolling in late 2024, Robbins only retrieved it a few weeks ago after a 5-mile snow-covered hike.
Fewer than 40 Sierra Nevada red foxes are believed to exist in the wild, making them one of the rarest mammals on Earth, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. These high-elevation foxes face serious threats from wildfire, drought, coyotes, and genetic hybridization with non-native foxes.
Robbins, a longtime photographer based in Susanville, has focused on capturing rare wildlife since 2018. “I see pursuing images of them as a way I can help advocate for their conservation and recovery,” he said.
Though thrilled with the video, Robbins says he’s still hoping to capture the perfect high-resolution portrait. “The quest is not over,” he said.
With each sighting, he hopes to raise awareness and inspire others to care for these wild, alpine survivors. Watch the full video from Randy Robbins:
