A small fox built for extreme cold — they tolerate temperatures down to -94°F (-70°C) and are the only canid whose paw pads grow fur in winter for insulation. Their fur is among the warmest of any mammal.

Also called: Polar Fox, White Fox

Native status: Native to Arctic; circumpolar

§ Quick facts

SizeBody 50–75 cm (20–30 in); shoulder height 25–35 cm
Weight3–6 kg (6.5–13 lb)
LifespanWild 3–4 years; captive 14
OrderCarnivora
FamilyCanidae

§ Encyclopedia

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. It is well adapted to living in cold environments, and is known for its thick, warm fur that can be used as camouflage against snow in the winter. It has a large and 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.

Source: Wikipedia — Arctic fox Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

§ Identification

Field marks. Small fox; white winter coat, brown-gray summer coat. Compact body and short legs reduce heat loss.

Similar species. Red Fox (much larger, longer legs, doesn't turn white). No other Arctic fox species.

Voice. Yips, barks, growls; whines from cubs.

§ Diet & behavior

Diet. Lemmings (primary), Arctic hares, ground-nesting birds and eggs, carrion (especially leftovers from polar bear kills).

Behavior. Forms breeding pairs; multi-litter families share territories. Famously curious near humans. Migrates seasonally with sea ice and prey abundance.

§ Range

Arctic tundra of Alaska, northern Canada, Greenland, Russia, Scandinavia

§ Habitat

Arctic and alpine tundra; coastal cliffs

§ Threats

Climate-driven loss of sea ice and tundra, displacement by red foxes moving north, fur trapping in some regions.

§ Conservation status

According to the IUCN Red List, the arctic fox is currently classified as Least Concern.

§ What helps

Support climate action. Reduce greenhouse-gas emissions. Donate to Arctic conservation organizations.

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§ Further reading

§ Sources cited

  • Arctic Fox Conservation
  • Norwegian Polar Institute
  • USFWS
  • IUCN Red List 2014