Arctic Fox (Vulpes lagopus) — Least Concern Mammalia

Arctic Fox

Vulpes lagopus

Conservation Status

Least Concern

Mammalia · Carnivora · Canidae

About

The Arctic fox, also known as the white fox, polar fox, or snow fox, is a small species of 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 best known for its thick, warm fur that is also used as camouflage. It has a large and very fluffy tail. In the wild, most individuals do not live past their first year but some exceptional ones survive up to 11 years. Its body length ranges from 46 to 68 cm, with a generally rounded body shape to minimize the escape of body heat.

Fun Fact

Arctic foxes grow fur on the soles of their feet (the only canids to do so) and have the warmest pelt of any mammal — they don't start shivering until temperatures drop below −70°C.

Quick Facts

Habitat

Arctic tundra

Diet

Omnivore

Lifespan

3-6 years

Threats

  • Shipping Routes
  • Climate Change

External Data Sources

Recent sightings on iNaturalist IUCN Red List profile

More Mammals Species

Abbott's Duiker EN Abbott's Gibbon EN Addax CR African Elephant EN African Forest Elephant CR African Wild Ass CR
Browse all Mammals →