- This year we are very pleased to have had more than 30 pups, and it is positive to see so many litters as well. Especially because three of the pairs are newcomers at the station, says researcher Kristine Ulvund at the Norwegian Institute for Nature Research (NINA).

Variation between years

In the last four years, the number of pups born at the breeding station has varied considerably. 2021 was a good year, with 33 pups spread among 6 litters. 2022 was the opposite, with no litters at all. Thorough investigations by the NINA researchers showed that the foxes did not get enough vitamin B1 through the feed. It was then a relief in 2023 to see 4 litters producing a total of 11 pups, and 34 in 2024.

- It is difficult to pinpoint exactly what makes for a good year at the breeding station. This year, four out of six pregnant females were first time mothers, and we cannot expect them to be able to raise as many pups as more experienced females. Although it does look good the future that we have so many first-time mothers, says NINA veterinarian Marianne Furnes.

Fresh genes

The main aim of the captive breeding program is to strengthen sub-populations of Arctic foxes in Norway. As the areas in which the captive bred foxes can establish themselves increase, the geographical distance between sub-populations will decrease. This will in turn make it easier for the foxes to travel between sub-populations and exchange genes. So far, the captive breeding program has released more than 450 Arctic foxes in nine mountain areas in Norway.

The Arctic fox captive breeding program is run by NINA and financed by the Norwegian Government through the Norwegian Environment Agency.

Want to know more about the breeding program?

Contact:

Craig Jackson

Kristine Ulvund

• 18 July 2024
• Author: Jørn J. Fremstad
• Number of views: 1007