日本赤狐 (Nihon Akiko), or the Japanese red fox, is a subspecies of the red fox found primarily in Japan. It is known for its striking reddish-brown fur, bushy tail, and white underbelly. This fox typically inhabits forests, grasslands, and rural areas, adapting well to various environments across the Japanese archipelago. The Japanese red fox plays a significant role in local ecosystems as a predator, primarily feeding on small mammals, birds, and insects. It is also culturally significant in Japan, often associated with the deity Inari, who is believed to have foxes as messengers.