Arctic fox in Dovrefjell-Sunndalsfjella National Park, Norway

© Andy Trowbridge/Minden Picture

Preparing to change its colour. Arctic fox in Norway

We’re visiting Norway’s Dovrefjell–Sunndalsfjella National Park, where this small but mighty Arctic fox is undergoing changes to prepare for the cold, Nordic winter. While animals have many ways to adapt to winter weather, such as migrating, hibernating, and growing thick fur, the Arctic fox does none of this. Instead, its thick fur coat transitions from brown and gray to a snowy white every autumn. The fox’s pelt acts as a camouflage, allowing it to blend in among the rocks and tundra for half of the year and, after turning white, hide in the snow and ice the other half.

Note the rounded ears and short muzzle – these protect the Arctic fox against frostbite. Even the bottom of the Arctic fox's paws are covered in fur, allowing it to stay atop the snow and ice as it walks. This little fox will be able to play, hunt, and wander the snowy tundra all winter, even in temperatures as low as –94°F! Stay warm, little buddy.