For a wildlife enthusiast, this is basically a dream come true – this photographer comes so close to this arctic fox that he could touch it.
I’m sure you also dream about seeing rare wildlife up close. While it’s not often we find ourselves in arctic regions, and even rarer that we get to meet shy species like the arctic fox, we can at least enjoy the incredible footage brought to us by dedicated wildlife photographers.
How Big Are Arctic Foxes?
Actually, a more fitting question for us to ask would be, “How small are Arctic Foxes?”. On average, they weigh between 6 to 10 pounds and measure 55 inches from nose to tail tip at most.
Their small size is actually an advantage – it plays an important role in conserving heat and means that they can easily navigate through snow to hunt for prey.
Why Their Fur Is Crucial For Their Survival
The fur of the Arctic fox serves as more than mere covering; it’s a lifeline.
The color of the fur shifts with the seasons. In winter, it turns white to blend into the snowy landscape. Similarily, in summer, it turns brown to match the surrounding earth and rocks.
As its name clues us in on, the Arctic fox lives in an Arctic environment. Here, temperatures can drop to as low as -58°F. Without its dense fur, the Arctic Fox would suffer hypothermia in a heartbeat.
Their Fur Is Also Partially Why They’re Endangered
Ironically, the very thing that ensures the survival of the Arctic fox is also what has caused them to become endangered.
Their beautiful fur has made them a target for hunters and the fur trade. That being said, hunting isn’t the only threat. Climate change makes their situation even worse by changing their habitat and the availability of prey.
The Rare Footage: Wildlife Photographer Comes Amazingly Close to Arctic Fox
The video tells the story of a photographer who’s been exploring Greenland’s icy places for ten years. Then, one day, for the first time ever, he spots a pure white Arctic fox from far away.
He decides to follow it, and this chase ends up with the fox getting super close to him. The cool part? The fox isn’t scared at all. It even nibbles on the photographer’s camera lens hood, creating a special moment I would do anything to experience myself.
Wrapping Up
We can’t all be wildlife photographers, but at least we can experience their breathtaking adventures through the lens of their cameras. Which animal do you dream of encountering in the wild?
Thank you for reading this article about the wildlife photographer who gets amazingly close to an arctic fox! For similar reading, take a look here:
- The Arctic Hare – A Fascinating Creature of the Frozen North
- Discover Baby Foxes
- Canadian Marble Fox
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