14 APRIL 1933, Page 14

GYMNASTIC FOXES.

That most lovely park, which we know as the Whipsnade Zoo, has had one quite unrehearsed experience. It has become sanctuary to hunted beasts. A year or more ago it was dis- covered that the foxes, which are numerous in the neighbour- hood, had learned to climb the wire in spite of its height ; and they destroyed a certain number of wild fowl. Among more direct evidence of their presence was relic hair found on the wire at a number of the places which they chose for escalade. This last winter this surprising agility of the foxes has proved unpopular with another class than the authorities of the Zee. As soon as the hounds discover his trail, the local fox, it is alleged, makes' straight for the Zoo, and climbs the wire, not for the purpose of raiding the bird enclosures, but solely to seek sanctuary from his enemies. It should be put up to this most intelligent animal that he cannot have it both ways : if hie desires sanctuary, he must obey the sanctuary laws ; and indeed-his ravages have become rarer. '

W. Ilz.ten-TizomAs.