Notorious for raiding bins and preying on pets, foxes are widely considered a nuisance.
But they used to be man's best friend, according to a study. Researchers analysed remains found at an ancient burial site in Patagonia, Argentina dating back to 450AD.
While it contained the skeletons of 18 adults and six children, there was also evidence that an ancient fox species was buried alongside the humans.
Analysis revealed foxes were buried in the same graves, and had shared a similar diet to humans, indicating a close relationship.
The species of fox discovered - Dusicyon avus - was roughly the size of a German shepherd but is now extinct.
Notorious for raiding bins and preying on pets, foxes are widely considered a nuisance (Stock image)
But, according to a study, they once used to be man's best friend (Stock image)
The researchers, which included scientists from the University of Oxford, suggest the fox was potentially a companion pet for hunter-gatherers.
However, they believe the introduction of the modern dog led to their decline as companion animals.
The study, published in the journal Royal Society Open Science, reads: 'The co-burial of humans and foxes is a rare archaeological record worldwide, and suggests a cultural or symbolic significance.
'Although the reasons for its inclusion in a mortuary context remain unclear, the most plausible explanation is that this fox was a valuable companion to the hunter-gatherer groups.
'Its strong bond with human individuals during its life would have been the primary factor for its placement as a grave good after the death of its owners or the people with whom it interacted.'
Malian army says it killed an Islamic State group commander who attacked U.S., Niger forces
Hezbollah launches rockets, drones into Israel as US warns Iran
Mysterious 'Big Ring' found in space 'must surely be telling us something'
Israel reined in by International Court of Justice rulings on Gaza
Swiatek rallies against Haddad Maia to reach Madrid Open semis
Whakaari/White Island owners appealing criminal conviction
Eli Lilly's new ad says weight
Ministry of Ethnic Communities, set up to 'heal wounds' of 15 March, faces job cuts
Confidence of US consumers continues to decline as Americans worry about the future
Screening of Hong Kong Poly U siege documentary slammed by pro
Explainer: What makes China magnet for multinational corporations?
KiwiRail seeks advice to extend life of Interislander Kaitaki ferry