The African fox, also known as the fennec (6 letters), is a small species of fox native to the Sahara Desert. It is the smallest species of fox in the world, with an average body length of 16 inches and a weight of 2-3.5 pounds. The fennec has large ears that help it to dissipate heat and keep cool in its desert habitat. Its fur is a pale cream color and its tail is bushy and tipped with black. The fennec is an omnivore, eating both plants and small animals. It is nocturnal and lives in burrows or dens.