Arctic fox can have up to 14 kits in one litter

Arctic fox is one of the iconic animals of the Arctic tundra. Also known as the white fox, polar fox, or snow fox, this omnivore is famous because of its characterized white coat. Although, a lot of foxes got killed because of their beautiful fur. Luckily, that horrible action stopped, and the population of these beautiful animals is recovering.

How big is an Arctic fox?

This beauty’s size in length varies from 18 to 27 inches, while weighs from 7,1 to 20,7 pounds. Since it’s built to survive in harsh conditions, our fox has a compact body, short legs and ears and a small, adorable muzzle. All of this prevents from exposing to cold air. As far as fur’s concerned, this animal has the most warmest fur of all, maintaining a consistent body temperature.

Where can we find an Arctic fox?

As the name suggests, this fox can be found in the Arctic tundra, including Alaska, Canada, Greenland, Russia, Norway, Scandinavia and Iceland. Yet in Iceland, the Arctic fox is the only native land mammal. Moreover, this fox was seen at elevations up to 9800 feet, and even on sea ice close to the North Pole. That’s a real winter!

Diet.

Although an omnivore, this fox will most likely eat meat, rather than, for example, berries. The diet includes small mammals such as lemmings, which are its favorite, birds and hares. Since the fox has an amazing hearing, it’s not a problem to detect the prey under the snow. Yet, this opportunistic predator loves to follow polar bears or wolves, and scavenge their leftovers.

Reproduction.

The female provides a special care for its young. She will select a dense with many entrances, and cleared from snow. When building it, the mommy will even make sure that the dense is towards the sun, which makes it warmer. These foxes mate for life, and both parents raise their pups. After 49 to 57 days, the mother gives birth to 6 to even 14 kits.

Did you know this fox changes color depending on the season? In the summer, the Arctic fox is brown, but as winter is approaching it turns the fur into white. Great camouflage, don’t you agree?

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