The arctic fox is an incredibly
hardy animal that can survive frigid Arctic temperatures as low as
–58°F (-50°C) in the treeless lands where it makes its home. It has
furry soles, short ears, and a short muzzle—all-important adaptations to
the chilly climate. Arctic foxes live in burrows, and in a blizzard
they may tunnel into the snow to create shelter.
Arctic
foxes have beautiful white (sometimes blue-gray) coats that act as very
effective winter camouflage. The natural hues allow the animal to blend
into the tundra's ubiquitous snow and ice. When the seasons change, the
fox's coat turns as well, adopting a brown or gray appearance that
provides cover among the summer tundra's rocks and plants.
These
colorings help foxes to effectively hunt rodents, birds, and even fish.
But in winter prey can be scarce on the ground. At such times, arctic
foxes will follow the region's premier predator—a polar bear—to eat the
leftover scraps from its kills. Foxes will also eat vegetables when they
are available.
Like a
cat's, this fox's thick tail aids its balance. But for an arctic fox the
tail (or "brush") is especially useful as warm cover in cold weather.
Female arctic foxes give birth each spring to a large litter of up to 14 pups.
If you want to photograph the arctic fox, check out our workshops in the Yukon,
http://northof49photography.com/photo-workshops/
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