Why does the arctic fox change colors

Snowshoe hares, polar bears, ermine and ptarmigan all similarly benefit from their winter white coats. The small proportion of this fax species which is the blue color phase in winter sheds its coat in spring to a thinner and darker bluish-gray in summer. The wide distribution of this fox in such a severe arctic environment is testament to its superb adaptation to cold and to the wide variety of food it will eat.

The compact body form, short snout and short, rounded, well-furred ears minimize heat loss from body extremities. The deep, thick pelage of very fine hair, and the hair on the soles of their feet provide excellent insulation. Even in winter, arctic foxes seldom seek shelter during their incessant search for food, except during severe storms when they may dig a hole in a snow bank or search out a breeding den.

The diet of the arctic fox is extremely varied throughout its range, related as it is to regional geographic characteristics and seasonal fluctuations in food supply. Microtine rodents, such as lemmings, ground squirrels and voles are an important component of the diet. Foxes inhabiting marine regions also hunt for small marine animals, fish and carrion along shorelines.

In winter, coastal arctic foxes venture onto the sea ice where they frequently trail polar bears to feed on the remains of seal kills. At such times, arctic foxes will follow the region's premier predator—a polar bear—to eat the leftover scraps from its kills. Foxes will also eat vegetables when they are available. Like a cat's, this fox's thick tail aids its balance. All rights reserved. Common Name: Arctic foxes. Scientific Name: Vulpes lagopus. Type: Mammals. Diet: Omnivore. Group Name: Skulk, leash.

Size: Head and body: 18 to Weight: 6. Size relative to a 6-ft man:. Least concern. Least Concern Extinct. Current Population Trend: Stable. This photo was submitted to Your Shot, our photo community on Instagram. Follow us on Instagram at natgeoyourshot or visit us at natgeo. Promoting Coexistence. Defending Conservation Laws. Innovating for Wildlife Conservation.

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Shop Gifts and Gear. Adopt an Animal. Give Through Your Will or Trust. Secondary Menu About. Get updates. Donate One-Time Donation. Monthly Donation. Sean Pettersen. Endangered Species Act. The Arctic fox is not listed. The San Joaquin kit fox is listed as endangered in the US. The swift fox is listed as an endangered in Canada but not the US. What You Can Do. News Image. Washington, DC. July 9, Especially exciting for Defenders of Wildlife and our conservation partners is the birth of two vital species.

Foxes Blog Posts Image. July 22, April 2, March 3, Related Regions Alaska.