1. Opportunistic Scavenging:
* Polar Bear Leftovers: Arctic foxes are known for following polar bears, waiting patiently for them to finish a kill. They then feast on the leftovers, which can be significant portions of seals, walruses, and other large prey.
* Carrion: They also scavenge carcasses of dead animals, including birds, fish, and smaller mammals, which helps them survive during lean times.
2. Active Hunting:
* Small Mammals: They are excellent hunters of lemmings, voles, and other small mammals. They use their keen sense of smell to track prey, and then pounce quickly to catch them.
* Birds: Arctic foxes can also catch birds, especially chicks and eggs. They may dig into bird nests or ambush them while they're on the ground.
* Fish: During the summer months, they may also hunt for fish, particularly salmon, in rivers and streams.
3. Hunting Techniques:
* Pouncing and Chasing: Arctic foxes use bursts of speed to chase down their prey, pouncing with their powerful legs.
* Underground Hunting: Their small size and agility allows them to dig into snowdrifts and underground burrows to catch prey that may be hiding there.
4. Adapting to Winter:
* Deep Snow: They have thick fur that provides insulation in the cold Arctic winter. This allows them to hunt in deep snow, where other predators may struggle.
* Winter Dens: Arctic foxes build elaborate dens in the snow and use them for shelter, raising pups, and escaping harsh weather.
In short, Arctic foxes are incredibly adaptable hunters who have mastered a variety of techniques to capture their prey. Their scavenging skills, quick reflexes, and ability to thrive in challenging conditions make them successful predators in the Arctic.