The Arctic Fox in Iceland

The Arctic fox (Vulpes lagopus), also known as the white fox, polar fox, or snow fox, is the only native terrestrial mammal in Iceland, having settled there long before human arrival. These animals likely crossed frozen seas during the ice age about 10,000 years ago, establishing themselves as a key species in the Icelandic ecosystem. In the harsh wilderness of Iceland, this small, furry creature has thrived for ten thousand years. Facing the elements and rugged terrain, it has established itself as one of history's most resilient natural survivors. In Iceland, the Arctic fox is a symbol of the rugged, unspoiled wilderness that characterizes the nation's landscapes.

Adapted perfectly to their environment, and best known for its thick, warm fur, Icelandic Arctic foxes continue to thrive in two distinct colour morphs: the white morph, which provides camouflage against the snow, and the blue morph, which remains darker year-round and blends in with the rocky terrain. This colour variation is more pronounced in Iceland than in many other parts of the Arctic fox’s range.

In the wild, most Arctic foxes do not live beyond their first year, although some exceptional individuals can survive up to 11 years; typically, however, they live between 3 to 6 years. Their body length ranges from 46 to 68 cm (18 to 27 inches), with a generally rounded body shape designed to minimize the escape of body heat.

To prevent heat loss, the Arctic fox curls up tightly, tucking its legs and head under its body and behind its furry tail. This position provides the smallest surface area to volume ratio and protects the least insulated areas. Although Arctic foxes are active year-round and do not hibernate, they conserve energy by reducing their locomotor activity. They build up their fat reserves in the autumn, sometimes increasing their body weight by more than 50%. This not only provides greater insulation during the winter months but also serves as a vital source of energy when food is scarce.

The diet of the Arctic fox in Iceland is primarily based on birds, eggs, and small mammals, with seasonal variation. During the summer, when food is more plentiful, they eat a variety of birds, such as puffins, and their eggs. In winter, when such prey is scarce, they often scavenge along the shoreline, feeding on whatever marine life they can find washed up on the beaches. This opportunistic diet has allowed them to survive in areas where other mammals might struggle.

Icelandic Arctic foxes breed around April and May, with litters typically born in early June. They den in complex burrow systems that have been used by generations of foxes. Arctic foxes typically select dens that are easily accessible and feature multiple entrances, ensuring they are clear of snow and ice for easier burrowing. They construct and choose dens that face southward towards the sun, which helps to warm the den. Additionally, Arctic foxes favor large, labyrinthine dens which provide effective protection from predators and facilitate a quick escape. These dens are often located in sandy soil, lava fields, or rocky outcrops.

The social structure is fascinating. The Arctic foxes form monogamous pairs during the breeding season and they stay together for years in the same area. Families, including non-breeding helpers from previous litters, work together to raise the young. This cooperative behaviour enhances the pups' survival rates in the challenging Arctic environment.

Conservation efforts in Iceland have shifted significantly over the years. Historically, the Arctic fox was seen as a pest, particularly by farmers who raised eider ducks for their valuable down feathers, leading to widespread culling. Today, they are protected within the Hornstrandir Nature Reserve in the Westfjords, where they have no natural predators and hunting them is forbidden. This area has become a crucial sanctuary for the foxes, allowing researchers to study their habits and populations without the pressure of human interference.

Despite their protected status in certain areas, the Arctic foxes still face challenges. The changing climate alters their habitat and the availability of prey. Warmer temperatures mean less snow cover, which complicates the white morph’s ability to hide from predators and successfully hunt. Furthermore, as human settlements expand, encounters between Arctic foxes and humans could potentially lead to conflict, although this is currently quite rare in Iceland due to the country's low population density and the foxes’ remote habitats.

Overall, the Arctic fox serves as a potent emblem of adaptation and survival, mirroring the spirit of the Icelandic wilderness. Their continued presence in Iceland's stark landscapes is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of nature in the face of climatic adversity.