The Arctic Fox Changes Color to Survive the Seasons

by Yemariam Bekele, age 10

Did you know arctic foxes are the only foxes that change colors every season? This keeps the arctic fox from overheating and freezing to death. During the summer, they turn blueish grey and turn white over the winter.

Arctic foxes can be found in the tundra, or the mountains by the sea. Arctic foxes live in dens dug into the side of the hills, cliffs, or river banks. The arctic fox does not hibernate during the winter, but travels south to the coast where it is warmer. They also dig through snow in the winter to create tunnels, where their family lives.

Arctic foxes have short noses and ears, and their paws are covered with thick fur during the winter. Arctic fox adults are about 20 to 24 inches in length, while their tails are 12 inches long. They weigh about six to seventeen pounds, and three to eight kilograms.

The arctic foxes diet consists of rodents, sea birds, marine mammals, fish, fruits, and even other animal’s poop. They often follow polar bears while hunting to enjoy their leftovers. Arctic foxes breed once a year.any average nine pups in a litter. They live about ten years in captivity but three years in the wild. As long as the fox starts warming, it can slow down its metabolism, so it doesn't have to eat as much.

The arctic foxes are remarkable animals that have adapted to survive in harsh and unique environments. Their physical traits and skillful behaviors allow them to hunt effectively and demonstrate their great capabilities.

[Sources: Better Planet Education; National Geographic Kids]