Observe and photograph a species in its natural habitat

Learn where and when to observe a species in the wild, how to recognize it in the field, and what habitats it lives in. Get photography tips adapted to its behavior and capture stunning images without disturbing the animal. For full details, open the complete profile in the WildlifePhotographer app.

Arctic Fox

Scientific name: Vulpes lagopus


Arctic Fox

IUCN Status: Least Concern

Family: CANIDAE

Group: Mammals

Shyness: Shy

Safe distance: 30 m

Breeding season / Courtship: 15.01-15.03

Gestation: 50 jours

Births: 15.03-15.05


Habitat:
Arctic tundra, sea ice

Description:
The Arctic Fox is a small carnivore found in the Arctic regions, primarily in Alaska, Canada, Scandinavia, and Russia. It measures about 45 to 50 cm in length, with a tail of 30 to 35 cm, and weighs between 3 and 9 kg, depending on the seasons. Its fur is typically white in winter, allowing it to camouflage in the snow, while it takes on a more brown or grayish hue in summer to blend in with the rocky and grassy landscapes. The Arctic Fox is an opportunistic omnivore, feeding on small mammals, birds, eggs, fruits, and berries. Although well adapted to the extreme living conditions of the Arctic, it is threatened by climate change, which is altering its natural habitat and the availability of its prey.

Recommended lens:
>=400 mm

Photography tips:
Approach slowly and discreetly, using a telephoto lens to avoid disturbing the Arctic fox, which is often vulnerable to human disturbances in its cold and hard-to-reach habitat. Photograph early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the light is soft and the fox is more active, often searching for food or moving through the snowy plains. Capture moments of natural behavior: The Arctic fox primarily hunts lemmings and other small mammals, creating great opportunities for photos of hunting or foraging in the snow. Be patient and respectful: The Arctic fox is a discreet animal and may spend a lot of time moving or resting. Wait for moments when it is more visible and engaged in natural activities. The Arctic Fox is a vulnerable species, due to climate change and the loss of its natural habitat. It is essential to respect its fragile Arctic environment and minimize disturbances. Follow local conservation rules to help preserve this iconic Arctic species.

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