![]() Rabies in Svalbard has an irregular/infrequent outbreak dynamics and is probably not endemic in Svalbard. The arctic fox in Svalbard is a reservoir for dangerous zoonoses (animal born parasite/diseases that may spillover to humans) in particular rabies and the tapeworm Echinococcus multilocularis (EM). Adventdalen/Sassendalen).Īrctic foxes are vulnerable to disturbances specifically during the denning period from mid May to mid August (see AECOS wildlife guidelines).Īrctic foxes has traditionally been harvested for their fur in Svalbard, and traditional trapping is still conducted mainly as recreational activity by local people, but also as a commercial activity at few trapping stations. The role of other marine subsidies such as seals, which depends on the extent of sea ice, is presently unknown.įigure of arctic fox den occupancy rate (percentage of known dens with cubs) in the two monitoring areas in Svalbard (A. The future fate of arctic fox populations in Svalbard will depend on the impact of climate change on its main food resources - reindeer, geese and sea birds. Sea bird colonies provide a constant resource that acts to stabilize the arctic fox population. The population dynamics is to large extent proximately driven by the availability of reindeer carcasses and ultimately by rain-on-snow events causing increased reindeer mortality. Nevertheless, the arctic fox in Svalbard does show significant year-to-year variation in population size, however without any obvious long-term trends. Svalbard lacks cyclically fluctuating arctic small rodents (like lemmings) so the population are much more stable compared to most other tundra ecosystems. ![]() It is abundant and functionally important - in particular in terms of its impacts on both terrestrial (ground nesting birds like ptarmigan and geese) and marine prey species (sea birds and the ringed seal). Wolverines, red foxes, polar bears and golden eagles are some of the predators of Arctic foxes.In Svalbard, the arctic fox is the apex terrestrial predator and scavenger with no natural enemies or competitors. They follow the footsteps of the polar bears and feed on the leftover scraps they leave behind. However, prey can be scarce during winter, but they have a strategy for that too. An Arctic fox always has a plan.Īs Arctic foxes are carnivorous, they hunt birds, rodents and even fish. They are monogamous animals as they mate for life! 5. Arctic foxes change color!Īrctic foxes have a green or brown coat in the summer, which turns into a thick white one when winter arrives.Ĥ. ![]() The metabolism of these animals increases during these conditions and is crucial for survival. They can live in extremely cold conditions.Īrctic foxes can endure temperatures as low as -70☌. In addition, their rounded ears, short legs and muzzle all reduce the surface area for heat loss. ![]() Their fur is a heat regulator.Ĭonsistent body temperature is maintained by these foxes because of their very thick fur. What makes these small animals so remarkable? Here are some fun facts about Arctic foxes. These foxes gain instant popularity due to their playful nature. Arctic foxes are also one of the popular animals among Arctic travellers. Arctic foxes are incredible animals that can survive extreme cold temperatures. ![]()
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