WASHINGTON — UPDATE: The red fox believed to have attacked people on U.S. Capitol grounds this week has been captured, the U.S. Capitol Police confirmed Tuesday afternoon.
U.S. Capitol Police issued an alert Tuesday morning after receiving reports of a red fox attacking individuals on the Capitol grounds.
One of those individuals was a member of Congress. Rep. Ami Berra told reporters that he was bit on the leg by a fox Monday night.
The alert said the fox was spotted in various locations, including the Botanic Garden, the House side of the Capitol and near First and C Streets. Police said the fox may have a den in that area close to the Dirksen Building and another possible den has been spotted near the Russell Building.
Michael Macagnone, who works for CQ Now, took a photo of a red fox that he spotted while sitting at a gazebo Monday outside the Russell Senate Office Building.
A photographer captured an image of a fox roaming the Capitol grounds Tuesday.
The alert included a warning for people to avoid making contact with any foxes they encounter as the wild animals can be protective of their dens.
Police said Animal Control is on the Capitol grounds, attempting to trap and relocate the fox or foxes.