Sacramento Valley Red Fox (IMAGE) University of California - Davis Caption The red fox, like this Sacramento Valley red fox, is the world's most widely distributed land carnivore. Genetic analysis by UC Davis scientists suggests the animal originated in the Middle East before beginning its journey of colonization. Credit Ben Sacks/UC Davis Usage Restrictions Provide credit. License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.