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Species: Vulpes lagopus Regions: Arctic, tundra, canada, russia Diet: small game, fish, berries Endangered : safe The arctic fox can be found in the northern hemisphere in abundance. From Canada to Russia these foxes have spread through the northern globe. Their small bodies (smaller than the red fox) allows them to maneuver in the winter weather, catching their prey and avoiding predators. Arctic foxes are also known as, white foxes, and snow foxes. They eat small mammals, fish, berries, insects and more. Territories of the Arctic Fox The arctic fox occupies a large portion of the northern hemisphere. Their thick fur is one of the warmest coats that an animal can have and serves them well in the cold harsh weather. They survive in areas such as the tundras, and Arctic regions but have also been found in southern parts of northern regions. Canada has a large number of arctic foxes and a trapping industry still exists there today. These foxes are exclusive to the Arctic regions, but sometimes venture out to the forest lines. They are most suited for the arctic climate. Red foxes have started to move in on the territory of the arctic fox due to climate change and wide expansion of the red foxes territories. Arctic Fox Survival When it comes to survival the arctic fox is built to adapt to the Arctic and tundra environment but the weather can take a toll on all that live in these areas. The fur of the arctic fox is thick and provides plenty of insulation for them to stay warm. They have long claws and fur at the bottom of their paws that help them grip the ice. Arctic foxes are smaller and have short legs, which helps them move fast among the snowy landscape and frozen tundra. They live to be 2 - 6 years old and usually venture out of the den after a month. Arctic fox litters are usually from 2 - 10 pups or kits. Arctic Fox Pups Seasonal Fur of the Arctic Fox The fur of the arctic fox changes color in the summer and winter months. They have a white coat in the winter season. Some arctic foxes stay a darker color through winter and are called blue foxes. Arctic foxes have a brown coat in the summer months but the colors vary. Their heavy fur makes their body look much bigger than they are and also helps keep other predators away. The fur keeps them warm but also makes them a target for trappers who sell their thick beautiful fur and hides. Behavior and Habits Arctic foxes are great hunters. They are able to hunt in the deep snow but they can be limited to mostly rodents and fish. The arctic fox is nocturnal and hunts at night. They dive up into the air and pounce into the snow with precision, nose first. It has just been discovered that they hunt without seeing their prey by using the magnetic field as a targeting system. Being able to triangulate their prey gives a huge advantage to their hunting habits in the Arctic environment. They are independent creatures and usually hunt alone. Arctic foxes keep to themselves and usually don't socialize until they mate which makes hunting for fewer mouths an easier task. Arctic fox dens have multiple entrances and sometimes are home to multiple generations of foxes. The main predators of the arctic fox is the gray wolf and polar bears. Conclusion To think that these creatures can thrive in the conditions of the Arctic and tundra is extraordinary. There has not been a real count of how many occupy their territories but it is noted that they are not in danger of extinction. The arctic fox continues to this day to be trapped and hunted for their thick beautifully colored fur. Love these fox pictures but want more? Visit our fox pics page with more pics and a link to our Instagram! about the author Chad Fox is a seasoned blogger and writer. He has published works of poetry, research and more. You can find examples of his work at Chad Fox Books and in the My Story section of this website. He has been a fan of foxes for many years and enjoys contributing to information and awareness.

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