Arctic fox Facts
The Arctic fox is a small fox of the Northern Hemisphere's Arctic regions, with thick, warm fur that helps it blend into winter snow.
- Class
- Mammal
- Scientific name
- Vulpes lagopus
- Conservation status
- Least concern (IUCN)
About the arctic fox
Nicknamed the snow fox, polar fox or white fox, this animal is common across the Arctic tundra and built for cold. Its body is rounded to hold in heat, measuring 46 to 68 cm (18 to 27 in) long, and it carries a big, fluffy tail. It eats seabirds, waterfowl, fish, ringed seal pups, voles and lemmings, and it also takes carrion, berries, seaweed, insects and other small invertebrates.
During breeding season, Arctic foxes pair up with one partner and raise their pups together in complex underground dens, sometimes with help from other relatives. Life is hard on the young. Most wild Arctic foxes do not make it past their first year, though a few exceptional ones reach 11 years.
Did you know?
- Polar bears, wolverines and even red foxes count among the Arctic fox's natural predators.
- Golden eagles and Arctic wolves also hunt Arctic foxes.
- The Arctic fox's scientific name is Vulpes lagopus.
Questions about the arctic fox
How long do Arctic foxes live?
Most wild Arctic foxes die before their first birthday, but exceptional ones can live up to 11 years.
Is the Arctic fox endangered?
No. It is listed as least concern.
Sources
- Wikidata Q82738, checked October 8, 2026
- Wikipedia: Arctic fox, checked October 8, 2026
Facts are compiled from these open sources and rewritten in our own words. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.