THERE have been many articles about foxes over the past year or so, most of which seem to be sensationalising fabricated stories of our most common and often-seen British wild mammal. Why does everyone make wildlife out to be villainous?

It’s a shame a man was bitten by a fox while trying to save it from drowning in his pool (The Argus, September 2), but sadly no animal understands when you are saving it; it only sees you as part of the panic it’s experiencing.

And while we must sympathise with this person, any animal in this situation, including a human, would thrash around dangerously when grabbed.

When a fox bites in fear, it bites and releases, unless you put up a fight, in which case it will hang on, so swinging it around on your hand is only likely to make things worse.

That’s why wildlife rescue is undertaken by knowledgeable specialists.

Ask yourself what any domestic cat or dog would have done in the same situation – they’d bite and struggle just like a fox.

Even a drowning human being might do the same in their panic.

This article is reminiscent of a little boy who was bitten by a fox last year when he put his arm through railings to where a fox was trapped. A frightened, trapped dog would have bitten him too, but no one said that – people just made out the fox to be nasty and evil.

No one mentions that pet dogs maim and kill children every year – no one says, “Get rid of dogs!”

Foxes do not attack people or hold them hostage, they do not break into houses and do not take chickens and rabbits if they are securely housed.

Foxes are generally loners but are more frequently seen when cubs are around in the spring and early summer.

They are nervous, frightened creatures when in close contact with humans.

People should study foxes more closely and not think of them solely as dangerous, wild animals.

Let’s all show a little tolerance. Wild animals are minding their own business. Let them get on with it.

Roger and Fleur Musselle, Downs Valley Road, Woodingdean

IN RESPONSE to your story on foxes being blamed for pet deaths (The Argus, August 31), it seems yet again the fox is being given a bad name.

Regarding the guinea pigs that went missing from a family’s garden; sad as this is, hutches and pens for this particular pet are very fragile and this gives a fox an opportunity.

Strong hutches should be used for any outdoor pets such as rabbits, guinea pigs and tortoises.

Foxes do fight at night, as do all animals. If a door is left open, a fox can find itself inside a home before realising.

It’s not unusual to see urban foxes at 11pm, but they aren’t interested in people. They will keep their distance and probably run away if you get too close.

Thank goodness there is common sense from Margaret Croucher in this story, who put the whole thing in perspective by saying, “Urban foxes have been a harmless part of the community for years.”

That is how we should let it remain, but be aware that the fox is a wild neighbour and live accordingly.

Gloria Wheatcroft, The Drive, Hove

I AM a pensioner staying in Brighton at the moment.

Recently, I was almost attacked by a pack of foxes in broad daylight. The adult fox came towards me hissing while the younger ones were snarling loudly. I shouted and thrashed my shopping bag at them before they ran off.

I do believe if I had been a child, they would have attacked me. There are three young children living in the same building as me. They cannot play outside or go out unescorted.

I would feel much relieved if this situation was highlighted for the safety of others. Then the authorities might take notice, before a tragedy happens.

Maureen Black, Perth Road, Dundee