Which fox is the smallest of all foxes?

The Fennec fox is the smallest of its species, growing to a maximum of 41 centimeters (16 inches) long. It has massive ears which can be 15 cm (5.9 inches) long. The ears are used to help cool them down by radiating body heat, but are also a great tool to detect prey underground.

Precise population figures are not known but are estimated from the frequency of sightings; these indicate that the animal is currently not threatened by extinction. The fennec's fur is prized by the indigenous peoples of North Africa, and in some parts of the world, the animal is considered an exotic pet.