The Arctic Fox
The Arctic fox (Alopex lagopus aka Vulpes lagopus) is an opportunistic omnivore and scavenger, native to regions of the Northern Hemisphere (1,2) (Fig. 1). The Arctic fox has very thick winter fur which enables it to survive at temperatures as low as -50°C in the wild (1). Arctic foxes also have small and heavily furred ears, a short snout, as well as fur on the soles of their paws to further help them survive the harsh Arctic conditions and to not have to hibernate during the winter (1). On average, adult foxes are 52cm from head to body in length and weigh approximately 3.5kg (1,3). |
Diet & Behaviour
Surviving in the Arctic environment often involves the ability to move and search far and wide for prey. Arctic foxes are known for their mobility and have been recorded to travel a total of 4,500km during a single winter season (1). Arctic foxes’ diet varies depending upon location, with scat analysis and observations showing foxes consume sea birds, fish, marine invertebrates and other such mammals as seal pups and rodents (1,4). Despite the Arctic foxes’ opportunistic diet, studies have shown that the majority of their diet consists of rodents – Lemmings and voles (Fig. 2) – with their population observed to fluctuate greatly with change in rodent numbers (1,4). Complex den systems provide both shelter and protection against predators and harsh winds (4). Arcitc fox litter size is highly dependent upon food availability with between 5 to 10 cubs produced on average (4). |