YES! The arctic fox is friendly to humans. They are usually harmless, but they can attack you if they see you as a threat. They usually don’t hunt humans, but it is still suggested that you maintain a several hundred meters distances from them.
Considering the behavior of arctic foxes, you will find them safe enough in natural conditions until you make any unusual behavior to them. But be careful; they are wild animals and can be aggressive for many reasons. Hmmm.. it’s really thrilling – Let’s know the truth.
Can Arctic Foxes Be Pets?
If you are looking for a unique pet, the arctic fox could be a good idea. But it can be tough.
I must say, arctic foxes are not like cats or dogs, but they are wild animals. They are the type of animals that prefer to hunt for their own food, so you would have to provide them with a raw meat diet.
But owning one comes with a lot of responsibility, including taking care of them.
Did you know arctic fox’s facts as a pet? Yes, they have great fame as one of the most tamed and domesticated animals that show their affection and loyalty to humans.
Key Points that Can Make Arctic Fox a Great Pet
They can be treated and trained as pets, such as you can teach them how to roll over, stay and sit. Below, I will talk about some key points that can make the Arctic fox a great pet.
1. Social and calm in nature:
The Arctic fox is a smart and social animal. They are found in groups and linked with their families. Arctic foxes can be easily trained and like to follow instructions.
Arctic foxes should be picked as a pet only when you know the particular one you are picking is calm in nature.
2. Cute and Beautiful
Arctic foxes have fluffy white covering all over their body with golden or orangish-colored eyes. They are considered very cute animals according to their looks. Being cute and beautiful has a great impact when choosing a pet and arctic foxes will make a list as they are super cool.
3. Playful
Like most other foxes, arctic foxes are also very cheerful and playful. They like to play and dig holes around their houses. Arctic foxes live with their families.
They are playful with humans and don’t often attack humans. But in the circumstances like self-defense, they can be rude to mankind.
4. Smaller Size
An adult arctic fox normally lengths 540-580 mm and weighs 3.5-4.5 kgs. Now you don’t want something very big as a pet which doesn’t fit in your house.
You can cuddle arctic foxes and they will fit perfectly in your home. But they only live around 11 years and you don’t want your loving pet to die so fast.
5. Easy to maintain
Arctic foxes are easy to maintain as they don’t need much care like a cat. They are meat lovers and can be fed high-protein dog foods available in the market.
A trained arctic will never ruin your home decor or anything you love. They love human companions and are very faithful to their owners.
Are Arctic Foxes Smart?
The arctic fox is one of the smartest and most intelligent wild animals.
They are smart enough to hunt for their own food and survive in any type of weather.
They can also hear from around 40 yards away so that they can protect their young ones.
Are Arctic Foxes Friendly Or Dangerous To Humans?
Arctic foxes, while appearing to be very friendly and lovable animals, are, in fact, quite dangerous to humans, but depending on certain circumstances.
On their own, they can be quite timid creatures, but when wounded or scared, they can become aggressive and potentially dangerous.
They may bite when defending their territory, protecting themselves or their young. Because of this, it is best for those encountering an Arctic fox not to engage with the animal in any way.
According to the study of AECO, it is recommended to stay away from arctic foxes because they are recognized as one of the potential carriers of the rabies virus.
If any arctic foxes (addicted to the rabies virus) bite you, it is definitely a health hazard. The rabies virus can change the behavioral facts of Arctic foxes and most significantly, it is responsible for causing unnecessary aggression to humans.
Note: According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Rabies is a preventable viral disease.
How Do Arctic Foxes Interact with Humans?
Arctic foxes are mammals that typically live in the icy climates of the Arctic Circle, but they occasionally wander outside of this area.
While these foxes tend to be rather elusive, humans interact with them more than most people think.
For example, locals in some Arctic regions have domesticated arctic foxes and kept them as pets for their lovable nature and fur.
Additionally, arctic foxes are hunted for their fur since the quality is quite soft.
They also have a beneficial role in controlling rodent populations.
However, it is important to note that contact with humans should always be limited as such creatures can carry zoonotic diseases and transmit them to humans if given contact for an extended period of time.
How Do You Avoid Disturbances with Arctic Foxes?
When it comes to avoiding disturbances with Arctic foxes, remaining watchful and respectful is of utmost importance.
Maintaining a reasonable distance and keeping out of sight are good ways to start.
If you notice an individual fox appears undisturbed by your presence, but you come too close or make sudden movements, they may become alarmed and defensive.
To avoid this, be still, limit your time spent in the vicinity, and never approach or try to touch the animal.
Additionally, it’s essential to refrain from feeding them human food as it can potentially lead to dangerous behaviors such as coming too close in search of additional snacks.
By following these guidelines, you can help ensure that you and the Arctic fox remain safe while exploring their natural habitat!
FAQs
1. Are arctic foxes rare?
No, Arctic foxes are not rare and are actually quite common in their native range, which includes the Arctic tundra of North America, Europe, and Asia. They have a global population estimated to be over 1 million individuals.
2. Are arctic foxes aggressive?
Arctic foxes are not typically aggressive animals. They tend to be shy and elusive, living in small family groups or alone in the wild.
However, they can be aggressive if they are addicted to viruses, diseases, or other related facts. They are not known to attack humans unless they are provoked or feel threatened.
3. Can arctic foxes kill you?
No, Arctic foxes are not capable of killing humans. They are a small canid species and typically weigh between 8 and 10 pounds. While they may make loud noises to ward off predators, they are generally harmless and not known to attack humans.
4. Why is the Arctic Fox Endangered?
The Arctic fox is not currently endangered, but it is considered to be vulnerable due to climate change and other human activities.
Conclusion
Even though they are not as domesticated as dogs, arctic foxes have been known to become attached to humans.
In fact, when raised from a young age, arctic foxes can bond strongly with their owner and be just as friendly as any other pet.
While they may not be the first animal that comes to mind when you think of a companion, but they can be on your list of lovable pets.
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