The Arctic fox (Vulpes lagopus) is a small fox native to the Arctic regions of the Northern Hemisphere and common throughout the Arctic tundra biome. It is well adapted to living in cold environments and is able to survive temperatures of −58 °F (−50 °C) in the wild. The Arctic fox has a body length of 18–26 inches (45–65 cm) a shoulder height of 9–10 inches (23–25 cm) and a weight of 2–6 pounds (1–3 kg). It is sexually dimorphic with larger males weighing 4.4–6.6 pounds (2–3 kg) and females 3.1–5.3 pounds (1.4–2.4 kg).
The coat of the Arctic fox is the thickest and most luxuriant of any fox. The Arctic fox is also the most variably colored mammal in the world. Its coat is white in the winter (hence its name) but can range in color from slaty blue-gray to brownish red. The winter coat is thicker and more insulating than the summer coat and allows the fox to survive in temperatures as low as −58 °F (−50 °C). The Arctic fox sheds its coat twice a year once in the spring and once in the autumn.
The Arctic fox is a monogamous creature remaining with the same mate for life. Females give birth to litters of up to 12 pups in the spring and the whole family lives together in an underground den during the winter.
The diet of the Arctic fox varies depending on the time of year and the availability of prey. In the summer when there is an abundance of small mammals such as lemmings the fox feeds mainly on these animals. During the winter when lemmings are scarce the fox is forced to eat a wider variety of prey including birds eggs and carrion. Arctic foxes have also been known to eat berries and vegetables and will scavenge food from human garbage cans.
The Arctic fox is hunted by a variety of predators including other foxes wolves and bears. However the biggest threat to the Arctic fox is habitat loss due to human activity such as development and climate change.
The Arctic fox is found throughout the Arctic tundra biome. In North America its range includes Alaska northern Canada and parts of Greenland. In Eurasia its range includes northern Scandinavia Iceland and Russia.
Where does an artic fox live?
The artic fox lives in the cold icy climates of the artic regions.
How well does the artic fox adapt to cold climates?
The artic fox is very well adapted to cold climates.
It has a thick coat of fur that helps to keep it warm in even the coldest temperatures.
What does the artic fox eat?
The artic fox is a carnivore and its diet consists mostly of small mammals such as lemmings and voles.
It will also eat birds fish and insects.
How long do artic foxes live?
Artic foxes typically live for about 3-6 years in the wild.
Where do artic foxes mate and have their young?
Artic foxes mate and have their young in dens that they dig in the snow.
How many young does an artic fox have at a time?
Artic foxes typically have 2-5 young at a time.
What is the primary threat to artic foxes?
The primary threat to artic foxes is habitat loss due to climate change.
Are artic foxes endangered?
No artic foxes are not currently endangered.
What is the scientific name for the artic fox?
The scientific name for the artic fox is Vulpes lagopus.
How big is an adult artic fox?
Adult artic foxes typically weigh between 3-7 kg.
What is the typical lifespan of an artic fox in captivity?
Artic foxes in captivity typically live for about 10 years.
Do artic foxes hibernate?
No artic foxes do not hibernate.
How much time do artic foxes spend in their dens?
Artic foxes typically spend about 60% of their time in their dens.
What is the primary purpose of a fox’s tail?
The primary purpose of a fox’s tail is to help the fox balance while running and jumping.
What is the most common coloration for an artic fox?
The most common coloration for an artic fox is white.
