Species

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Vulpes lagopus

Arctic foxes are a small fox species adapted to cold environments. It has thick, warm fur and a large, fluffy tail. They have a short muzzle and legs with thick ears. Their body is rounded and minimizes the escape of body heat. They have complex social structures, forming bands in underground dens. Breeding and non-breeding males and females can guard a single territory to increase pup survival, but when resources are scarce, the number of foxes on a territory decreases. There are two colour morphs, white and blue. White has seasonal camouflage whereas blue is typically dark blue, brown, or grey year-round.

Range: Their native range is arctic regions in Eurasia, North America, Greenland, and Iceland.

Habitat: Treeless tundra

Size: 1.4-9.4 kg (3.1 to 20.7 lb); 41-68 cm (16 to 27 in)

Life Span: 3-6 years in the wild; 10-16 years in captivity

Feeding: Carnivore

Reproduction: Monogamous. Breeding season occurs from April to July with an average gestation period of 46 to 58 days. Litter size varies with the lemming population, with some litters containing as many as 25 cubs. They are weaned at 9 weeks and reach sexual maturity in 10 months. Both parents provide for the offspring, and when resources are plentiful, cubs tend to stay in their parents' territory.

Conservation Status: Least concern. Arctic foxes adapt readily to captive environments.

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Full Classification:

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