Arctic Fox

Meet the Arctic Fox

A compact cold-adapted fox with dense fur and seasonal coat variation. The scientific name used in this profile is Vulpes lagopus.

Range and habitat

Arctic regions of the Northern Hemisphere. Typical settings include tundra and coastal arctic environments. Presence is not uniform throughout a named region; historical range and current distribution may differ.

Observe the ecology

Look at the relationship between food, cover, movement and human land use. A canid's social system and daily activity depend on species and local conditions. A zoo photograph cannot describe the entire natural range.

Conservation and coexistence

Climate change and changing food webs affect populations differently across the Arctic.

Use specialist assessments for current population trends and threat categories. This page deliberately avoids treating a conservation category as permanent. Follow site-specific guidance when visiting protected areas.

Wildlife, not companion animals

Do not feed, approach or attempt to handle wild canids. Keep domestic dogs under appropriate control near wildlife, secure food waste and observe from a distance. Support habitat protection and qualified conservation organizations.

Read critically

Species names and boundaries may change with new evidence. Record the source and date when comparing references, and distinguish a species from a domestic breed, a regional population or a hybrid.