Physical Characteristics of Arctic Fox (<i>Alopex Lagopus</i>) Dens in Svalbard

Abstract

Physical characteristics of 73 arctic fox (Alopex lagopus) dens in Svalbard are described. In a mountainous study area of 975 sq/km, most dens were found below 200 m and none was found above 400 m. Most dens were located in slopes in valleys or along the coast, facing in a southerly direction (mean aspect 222 degrees). Dens had an average of 9.8 entrances and a mean size of 52.1 sq/m. Snow cover was less over dens than on adjacent areas in winter. Vegetation at dens was different than at adjacent areas. Of 56 dens found in the study area, 3 were burrows and the rest were situated under boulders, in screes or in bedrock. Dens were situated in dry localities, most often in protruding bedrock and ridges where foxes had an unrestricted view.

Key words: arctic fox, Alopex lagopus, dens, Norway, Svalbard