Interesting facts about the Arctic fox Is a great opportunity to learn more about carnivorous mammals. He is distinguished by cunning and the ability to survive in the harshest conditions. As of today, the population of animals is noticeably decreasing due to poaching.
So, here are the most interesting facts about the Arctic fox.
- The average weight of the arctic fox is 3.5-4 kg, but some individuals reach 9 kg in weight.
- The soles of the fox's paws are covered with stiff bristles.
- According to his body constitution, the scribe resembles a fox (see interesting facts about foxes).
- The ears of the arctic fox hardly protrude from under the coat, thanks to which they are protected from frostbite.
- With the onset of winter, Arctic foxes move to the southern regions, where rather harsh conditions are also observed.
- Arctic fox is widespread in the Arctic Circle, as well as on the coasts of the Arctic Ocean.
- The animals form pairs, but they part for the winter, since it is easier for them to survive alone than together.
- An interesting fact is that according to scientists, the fur and heat exchange system of the Arctic fox are so unique that they would allow it to survive even at a temperature of -70 ⁰С.
- The Arctic fox lives in a hole that resembles a complex system of mazes with many exits. In such a hole, he can live up to 20 years.
- It is curious that the Arctic fox never digs a hole further than 500 m from a water source.
- In summer, the fur of the white fox darkens, making it easier for him to camouflage in the forest.
- If in the Arctic fox's habitat the snow has one or another gray shade, then the animal's fur will be of the same color.
- The number of cubs that a female can give birth directly depends on food. In good conditions for life, a couple can give birth to up to 25 cubs, which is a record among all mammalian species.
- Arctic foxes often fall prey to polar bears (see interesting facts about polar bears).
- The Arctic fox is an omnivorous predator, feeding on both plant and animal food.
- If the Arctic fox does not have time to stock up on fat for the winter, then he will certainly die of exhaustion.
- To sew an average polar fox coat, you need to kill about 20 foxes.
- With a lack of food, the Arctic fox can feed on carrion.
- Arctic fox sees poorly, but has good hearing and smell.
- In times of famine, the arctic fox is able to slow down the metabolism by almost half. It is curious that this does not affect his life in any way.
- Arctic foxes are often hunted by wild birds (see interesting facts about birds).
- During the period of seasonal migrations, the Arctic fox can cover up to 4000 km.
- In the event of the death of their parents, puppies are rarely left unattended, since other animals begin to take care of them, feeding them along with their offspring.
- Lemmings make up a fair share of the diet of Arctic foxes, so if the population of this prey decreases, predators can starve to death.
- In Iceland, the Arctic fox is considered the only land mammal that lives in natural conditions.
