Alopex lagopus
The Arctic fox is a small fox that has
successfully made a home for itself in the frigid temperatures of
the Arctic Circle. It is often a solitary creature, though it can
be found in small family groups. It is also called the Polar, Blue, or White fox
(MacDonald, 2001) due to the two
morphs, or colors, its coat can take. The Arctic fox weighs
only 4 to 20 pounds, which is lighter than most domestic breeds of
dog! However, its thick woolly coat gives it a much heavier
appearance. The length of the head and body of the Arctic fox
is typically between 18 and 26.6 inches long, with the tail adding
another 10 to 17 inches to the overall length (Malcolm,
2003). The iris of its
eyes is a deep golden or orange-yellow color, which is useful
against the glare in the icy environment of the Arctic.
Despite the frigid waters of the Arctic, this fox swims willingly. It
is active at any time of day throughout the year, and moves very
easily over ice and snow.
