Here's something actually Redwall related for you...

[Vengerak]

...what're Marlfoxes based on IRL?  Foxes with some sort of pigment thing going on, or what? They aren't melanistic, and they aren't albino...what are they?

http://www.just-for-kids.com/gif/marlfox.jpg

[Gen. Volkov]

I believe jackals. For two reasons. One, they look like short haired jackals. Two, something in me says jackals were once called marlfoxes, but don't quote me on that, I'm not sure. Vaguely remembered something here.

[Ashyra Nightwing]

http://www.canids.org/SPPACCTS/redfox.htm

There's a picture of a silver fox on this site - I think that's what they are based on..

[Gen. Volkov]

They're similar, but the muzzle shape is funny, granted that's artists prerogative, so I guess that's possible. You would know more than I if you have read ANY Redwall books.

[Vengerak]

Props to Ashyra.  Now I know.  :-D