Arctic Fox
I.U.C.N status
International Union for Conservation of Nature
LC
Least concern
NT
Near threatened
VU
Vulnerable
EN
Endangered
CR
Critically endangered
EW
Extinct in the wild
EX
Extinct
Identity card
Class :
Mammals
Order :
Carnivores
Family :
Canidae
Genus :
Vulpes
Species :
lagopus
Average size
55 to 75 cm
Weight
3 to 5 kg
Longevity
15 years
Sexual maturity
10 months
Gestation
About 2 months
Litter
5 to 8 young
Diet
Omnivore
Insects, berries, carcasses, invertebrates, marine mammals, seabirds...
Did you know?
The Arctic fox moults twice a year: in winter, it wears a white coat to blend more effectively into snowy landscapes, while in summer its coat becomes very dark. Its long bushy tail serves to protect its paws and muzzle from the cold when it sleeps.
Threats and conservation
The Arctic fox has been driven from some regions due to competition with predators such as the red fox. Humans have also hunted it extensively for its fur. Despite this, populations have remained relatively stable.
