RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — As Virginians may run into foxes more frequently in spring, here are some tips to prevent conflict with the animal while keeping you and your pet safe. Though a nocturnal species, foxes may come out during the day this spring as they search for food and raise their young. A ccording to Hopewell Animal Services, some of their normal spring behaviors include having dens under sheds, decks or brush piles, and grown foxes carrying food back and forth. Virginians might also hear their barking and other sounds or see the pups playing near the den. The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) noted that spotting them around your neighborhood is not a sign of rabies, as foxes are typically attracted to food sources and an easily accessible area to make a den. When encountering foxes in residential areas or in your backyards, the authorities said to keep pets supervised and on a leash and not to approach pups. Virginians are also urged to remove outdoor food sources, such as pet food and trash, and secure sheds or crawl spaces after the foxes have left the area. The DWR encouraged Virginians to stop feeding wildlife as this habit will cause them to lose their natural fear of humans, clear fallen fruit from around trees and install fox-proof fencing around chicken coops or rabbit pens. Some other tips to keep in mind include: Keep trash inside until the morning of trash pick-up or place trash in an animal-proof container, such as a metal trash can with latches on the lids Remove bird feeders when problem species have been seen around them Close up all openings under and into your buildings, as animals look for places to den and raise their young Pass along this information to your neighbors and contact your local health department if a fox shows signs of rabies, like stumbling, foaming at the mouth or aggression It's also illegal in Virginia to trap and relocate an animal to another area. If you have persistent fox problems, contact a licensed trapper or a critter removal service. For more information, visit the Virginia DWR. ...read more read less