MEET OUR ARCTIC FOXES
BUDDY and JOVIE
Buddy and Jovie came to live at Cat Tales in March of 2020. They are Arctic Foxes and when they first arrived, they had their full white winter coats. During the summer they shed their white fur and are a dark brown grey. They are the smallest of the fox species and when not curled up sleeping, they are very active in their new fox designed exhibit. Though it is hard to tell, both foxes have special qualities. Buddy is a bit hard of hearing and Jovie is cross-eyed in both eyes. We are learning more and more about their behavior every day, watching the similarities to the red foxes and the behaviors that make them arctic unique. Born June 2019.
ABOUT THE ARCTIC FOX
Habitat: Arctic foxes live north of the tree line in the Arctic and alpine tundra, coastal areas, and on ice floes.
Lifespan: In the Wild, 3 – 6 years; In Captivity, 8 – 10 years;
Diet: Omnivore;
Status: Stable;
Interesting and little-known facts about arctic foxes:
Arctic foxes are true masters of camouflage. In the summer, their fur is a brown or gray color, but in the winter, it turns completely white to blend in with the snow.
Arctic foxes have one of the warmest fur coats of any mammal. Their thick fur helps them survive in temperatures as low as -58°F.
Arctic foxes are the only canid species that changes the color of their fur based on the season.
Arctic foxes have a unique adaptation that helps them survive in their harsh environment. They have a counter-current heat exchange system in their legs that prevents heat loss and keeps their paws warm.
Arctic foxes have incredible hearing, able to detect prey even when it is buried under several feet of snow.
Debunking common myths and misconceptions about arctic foxes:
Myth: Arctic foxes are only found in the Arctic.
Fact: While they are primarily found in the Arctic, arctic foxes can also be found in other cold regions, such as Canada and Russia.
Myth: Arctic foxes are always white.
Fact: Arctic foxes change the color of their fur based on the season. In the summer, their fur is brown or gray, but in the winter, it turns completely white.
Myth: Arctic foxes only eat meat.
Fact: While arctic foxes are primarily carnivorous, they will also eat berries and other plant material when available.
Myth: Arctic foxes are solitary animals.
Fact: While they do often live alone, arctic foxes are known to form family groups during the breeding season and will work together to raise their young.
Myth: Arctic foxes are not threatened by climate change.
Fact: Arctic foxes are among the species most vulnerable to the effects of climate change. As the Arctic warms, their habitat is changing, and their prey is becoming less abundant, putting the survival of the species at risk.
