* Habitat: Arctic tundra, with some populations extending into the high Arctic deserts
* Coat: Thick, white fur that provides excellent insulation in cold climates
* Ears: Small, rounded ears that help to minimize heat loss
* Tail: Bushy tail that helps to keep the fox warm and provides balance
* Diet: Primarily lemmings, but will also eat birds, eggs, fish, and carrion
* Lifespan: Typically 3-5 years in the wild, but some individuals have been known to live for up to 10 years in captivity
Desert fox (Vulpes zerda)
* Habitat: Deserts and semi-deserts of North Africa and the Middle East
* Coat: Pale, sandy-colored fur that helps to camouflage the fox in its environment
* Ears: Large, pointed ears that help to dissipate heat
* Tail: Thin, brushy tail that helps to keep the fox cool and provides balance
* Diet: Primarily insects, rodents, and reptiles, but will also eat berries, fruit, and carrion
* Lifespan: Typically 2-3 years in the wild, but some individuals have been known to live for up to 5 years in captivity
Here is a table that summarizes the key differences between Arctic and desert foxes:
| Feature | Arctic fox | Desert fox |
|---|---|---|
| Habitat | Arctic tundra | Deserts and semi-deserts |
| Coat | Thick, white fur | Pale, sandy-colored fur |
| Ears | Small, rounded ears | Large, pointed ears |
| Tail | Bushy tail | Thin, brushy tail |
| Diet | Primarily lemmings | Primarily insects, rodents, and reptiles |
| Lifespan | Typically 3-5 years | Typically 2-3 years |