ARCTIC FOX
Vulpes lagopus
©Paul Nicklen
Life in the Arctic is difficult, and the arctic fox is wonderfully adapted to live in very cold climates. While many mammals hibernate during the winter, the arctic fox does not. Its physical characteristics of superb insulation with fur and fat, combined with its stocky body shape enable the arctic fox to conserve body heat. Therefore, it can continue to remain active throughout the frigid months. During winters, their densely furred paws prevent heat loss through their feet. They also have the ability to restrict blood flow to the legs, which helps maintain core body heat. Lastly, the arctic fox has a tremendous tolerance for cold. Its metabolic rate only starts to increase at -58° Fahrenheit (-50° Celsius) and it only starts to shiver when temperatures reach -94° Fahrenheit ( -70° Celsius).
As the Arctic warms, the Arctic fox moves north and at the same time the larger and more aggressive red fox’s range expands into that of the arctic fox. These two species compete for food. The larger red fox also preys on the smaller arctic fox. Polar bears and wolves also threaten the arctic fox in two ways. When larger predators decline in numbers, they leave behind less carrion for the scavenging arctic fox. Bears and wolves also prey upon the arctic fox as a source of food. Despite all these hazards, arctic foxes are remarkably successful in most areas of their range.
And this baby has herterchromic iridum (different colored eyes)
Fact Source: http://www.zoo.org/animal-facts/arctic-fox
Other photos that you may like:
Red Fox
Arctic Fox Portrait
Arctic Fox - start of summer coloring
