Behavioral adaptations of Arctic fox, Vulpes lagopus in response to climate change

Abstract

Climate change is rapidly altering Arctic ecosystems, forcing native species to adapt. This study investigated the behavioral adaptations of Arctic foxes, Vulpes lagopus in response to climate change, focusing on changes in hunting patterns, den site selection, and social interactions. Over three years (2021-2023) in northern Alaska, we employed GPS tracking of 60 foxes, 100 remote camera traps, and direct field observations. We analyzed den site characteristics, prey availability, and environmental data. Generalized linear mixed models assessed relationships between environmental variables and fox behaviors. Significant shifts in behavior were observed: Diurnal foraging activity increased by 30.1%; den sites at elevations above 100m increased by 13%; cooperative hunting behaviors, particularly among non-kin groups, rose by 15.2%. Diet composition changed markedly, with lemming consumption decreasing from 62.3% to 33.7%, offset by increases in alternative prey. Hunting success rates for cooperative strategies improved, especially for marine prey (13.7% increase). Arctic foxes demonstrated remarkable behavioral plasticity in response to climate change, rapidly altering their hunting patterns, den site preferences, and social dynamics. While these adaptations suggest resilience, their long-term implications for Arctic fox populations and tundra ecosystems remain uncertain, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and conservation efforts.

Keywords

• arctic fox
• climate change
• behavioral adaptation
• den site selection
• cooperative hunting
• arctic ecosystems