Use 'vixen' only for female foxes, male foxes are not called vixens. The vixen guarded her young, while a male fox, or dog fox, watched from a distance.
Pro Tip 2/3
Animal Families
Emphasize the family aspect when talking about a vixen to show its role in nature. The vixen and her mate work together to feed their cubs.
Pro Tip 3/3
Wildlife Context
Use 'vixen' in discussions about wildlife, habitats, or animal behavior. The naturalist recorded the vixen's hunting patterns for the study.