GRAND TETON NATIONAL PARK, WY. – Park rangers at Grand Teton National Park are dealing with an unusual case of wildlife mischief:
a fox that has been stealing campers’ shoes
.
Over the past few weeks, visitors began reporting missing footwear, prompting park staff to post warnings advising people to store shoes inside tents, vehicles, or bear boxes. Despite these efforts, the fox has reportedly collected a total of 32 shoes.
Officials say it’s unclear why the fox is targeting footwear—possibilities include using them as toys, nesting material, or simply having a taste for “fashion.” Regardless of the reason, the park is concerned about the animal’s increasing comfort around people.
“The more time this fox spends around humans, the more dangerous things get for the fox,” the park warned in a recent update. Habituated wildlife can end up being relocated or euthanized if they become too dependent on human interaction.
Park officials are reminding all visitors to secure their belongings and avoid unintentionally encouraging wildlife behavior that could put animals at risk.
