If you find a den

If you find a den

If you find a den

It is important to be extremely careful when approaching a den, regardless of the time of day or season. The arctic fox is particularly dependent on its den when giving birth in May-August, but the den and its environs are a central part of the arctic fox's area of activity throughout the entire year. Never go closer than 200 meters to a den!

Keep your distance
If you find a den, first observe from a far distance, about 300-1000 m. The puppies can be laid out and easily intimidated into the den if you are too close.

Put up your tent far from the den, but close to a water source so you do not have to walk around a lot and disturb the foxes. You should never get closer than 200 meters from the den. From this distance you can with a good pair of binoculars have many enjoyable hours. There is no reason to go closer.

When are you to close?
It is a rare but extremely enjoyable experience to observe the arctic fox in nature. This means that we usually would like to get a little closer to see better or take photographs. As a hiker, there is no reason to do this.

A common preconception is that the arctic fox is very fearless. This is true to a certain degree, but in most situations it is as reserved as other wild animals. This means it is important to be able to interpret the arctic fox's behaviour. An arctic fox that repeatedly barks towards the den does so to tell you that you have come too close. This also can serve as a warning signal for the pups. If the arctic fox stays close to its den, this means that it is trying to protect its pups. If an arctic fox comes up to you at another location, the situation is totally different. In this case, the fox is the one that decides and sets the limits for its visit.

The arctic fox and its dens are protected!
The above heading should be rather self-evident. According to the Environmental Code, everyone who spends time on another person's private property or in nature should demonstrate respect and caution, which means that it is forbidden to kill, injure, capture or disturb arctic foxes. So remember to show consideration when you meet an arctic fox.