Arctic Fox
Scientific name: Alopex lagopus
Habitat: Arctic, alpine tundra (Scandinavia)
Diet: lemmings, voles, insects, berries, carrion, invertebrates, sea birds, eggs, fish
Life span: 3 years (7–10 years in captivity)
Young: 6–12 young/litter (whelps, kits, pups or cubs) (can have up to 22 young/litter)
Size: 2.5–7 kg (5.5–15 lbs)
The furred paws, long thick tail, and thick fur coat which changes colour seasonally, makes the Arctic fox ideally suited to live in the extreme cold of the north. Incredibly, they have been seen less than 60 km from the North Pole.
Arctic foxes have the largest litter size of any carnivore.
Indigenous peoples hunt this fox for its fur which is thought to have the best insulating properties among all mammals.
What is your zoo doing to help?
Polar Extremes: Arctic Shores habitat
Recreating an Arctic shoreline, this northern wonderland will be home to seals, sea lions, Arctic foxes and ground squirrels. This project will improve the quality of life for the seals and sea lion currently living at the zoo.
Learn more about this species:
These are some other websites that we think have more great information about this species.
Arctic fox on Animal Diversity Web
For More Information
Edmonton Valley Zoo
13315 Buena Vista Road (87th Avenue)
PO Box 2359
Edmonton, Alberta T5J 2R7
| attractions@edmonton.ca |
Range
Range: northern, Arctic
Status in the Wild
Status: thriving
