Arctic foxes breed successfully in Finland every year

Arctic foxes have bred successfully in Finland every year in recent years, with at least 11 cubs recorded this summer, Yle reports. Metsähallitus said four dens were observed in Enontekiö, with the cubs spread among them.

Almost all arctic foxes currently breeding in Finland are descendants of wild arctic foxes raised in captivity and released in Norway.

An arctic fox bred in the Enontekiö fells four years ago for the first time in more than 25 years. Since then, three or four successful breeding attempts have been recorded annually. The number of cubs has ranged from four to 25, depending on food availability.

Arctic foxes are also observed each year at several dens in the fell areas of Utsjoki. This summer, one pair occupied a den there, but no cubs were observed.

Breeding was also successful this year in the fell regions of Norway and Sweden. The highland plateaus used by arctic foxes are largely located near the countries’ border, meaning the countries share the same population.

The number of voles, the arctic fox’s main food source, is increasing in the fell areas. According to Metsähallitus, this is helping breeding succeed and could lead to an even better result next year.

Metsähallitus said that although the arctic fox population has grown, it remains far from viable.