The foxes in this study mostly chose to rest on the same floor area as where they had finished their previous resting period. The least preferred floor type for resting was the icy floor, the wild foxes winter habitat. Earlier research trying to duplicate natural winter conditions, found foxes preferred to rest on the ground whether dry, wet or snow covered. The conclusion then was foxes did not dislike frozen or wet ground under natural conditions. Wet floors in a farm situation can become soaked with feces and urine.
Foxes dislike using a soiled area for resting.
These researchers found a preference for wooden resting places among the four floor types. It was anticipated the foxes would have the same preference for wood if only a wooden platform and wire floor were made available. In their 1996 study a preference was not seen between the two floor types. The researchers concluded foxes preferred solid floors if the floors were dry but had an aversion to them if they were wet or icy. Under farm conditions solid flooring becomes wet and icy due to foxes defecating and urinating on them.