Unlike Antarctica, which is completely isolated by ocean, the Arctic is connected to the continents of North America, Europe, and Asia. This connection has allowed land animals to migrate into the region. The Arctic also has more plant life and a larger land area, supporting a greater variety of animal species—especially herbivorous mammals.
Here’s a closer look at some of the most fascinating animals that call the Arctic home, and how they survive in one of the planet’s harshest environments.
Polar Bear (Ursus maritimus)
No Arctic animal list would be complete without the iconic polar bear. These massive carnivores are the largest land predators on Earth. The name “Arctic” even comes from the Greek word arktikos, meaning “near the bear.”
Polar bears are built for freezing temperatures. They have thick fat layers and dense white fur, which provides both insulation and camouflage. With a powerful sense of smell and strong swimming abilities, they primarily hunt seals. However, their dependence on sea ice makes them vulnerable to climate change.
Walrus (Odobenus rosmarus)
The walrus is a social and sizeable marine mammal known for its long tusks. It belongs to the pinniped family, which also includes seals. Male walruses can weigh over 2,000 kilograms, much of which is a thick layer of blubber that keeps them warm in icy waters.
During mating season, males use their tusks in aggressive fights to defend territory and impress females. These animals are a highlight for tourists visiting the Arctic.
Lemming (Dicrostonyx torquatus)
Lemmings are small herbivorous rodents that feed on moss, grass, berries, and lichens. Unlike many Arctic creatures, they do not hibernate. Instead, they stay active in winter by building tunnel networks beneath the snow, which protect them from predators and keep them warm.
Their populations can rapidly rise and fall. During peak periods, food becomes scarce, forcing them to migrate in large groups. This behavior sparked the myth that lemmings commit mass suicide—an idea with no basis in fact.
Musk Ox (Ovibos moschatus)
Musk oxen are large, shaggy animals found mostly in Greenland and the Canadian Arctic. Despite the name, they are more closely related to sheep and goats than oxen. Their name comes from the strong scent males release to attract mates.
These animals are built for the cold, with long outer hairs and a thick undercoat that provides insulation.
Arctic Tern (Sterna paradisaea)
The Arctic tern is a small bird known for its incredible migration. Every year, it travels from its Arctic breeding grounds to the Antarctic and back—a journey of about 19,000 miles. This means it experiences two summers each year and more daylight than any other animal.
In the UK, they can be seen during the summer on the coasts of Shetland, Orkney, Anglesey, and the Isle of Man.
Wolverine (Gulo gulo)
Wolverines are fierce carnivores and the largest members of the weasel family. They live mostly in northern forests but also roam tundra regions across North America, Europe, and Asia. Known for their strength and toughness, they can take down prey much larger than themselves.
However, they are mainly scavengers and rely on carrion, often stealing food from other predators during the winter months.
Narwhal (Monodon monoceros)
With its long, spiral tusk, the narwhal looks like something out of a fairytale. This Arctic whale’s tusk is actually an elongated canine tooth, used as a sensory tool and a sign of dominance.
The tusk contains millions of nerve endings that help narwhals sense changes in their environment. It also plays a role in attracting mates.
Arctic Fox (Vulpes lagopus)
The Arctic fox is small but extremely well-adapted to the cold. Its thick fur changes color with the seasons—grey in summer and white in winter—offering camouflage all year round. Uniquely among canids, it has fur on the soles of its feet, acting like natural snowshoes.
Its diet includes lemmings, birds, and even seal pups. To catch prey hiding under snow, Arctic foxes leap into the air and dive headfirst to break through.
Greenland Shark (Somniosus microcephalus)
This mysterious Arctic predator is the longest-living vertebrate in the world. Greenland sharks are believed to live up to 400 years. Scientists determine their age by carbon-dating the lens of their eyes.
Despite their name, these sharks are found not only around Greenland but across the Arctic and North Atlantic, and even as far south as the Caribbean.
Snowy Ozl (Bubo scandiacus)
Snowy owls are striking birds with white feathers and yellow eyes. Unlike most owls, they are often active during the day—especially in summer. Their favorite food is lemmings, and the owl population fluctuates with the availability of these small rodents.
A single snowy owl can eat up to 1,600 lemmings a year. They are also opportunistic, feeding on birds, rabbits, and fish when needed.
Arctic Wolf (Canis lupus arctos)
The Arctic wolf is a subspecies of the grey wolf and is one of the most northerly-dwelling land predators. Often white-coated, these wolves have shorter muzzles and ears than their southern relatives, helping conserve body heat.
They live in remote areas from 65°N to 85°N, including Arctic islands. Their isolation and harsh environment make them one of the least-studied wolf populations.
These remarkable animals have evolved to survive and even thrive in the Arctic’s unforgiving climate. From deep-diving narwhals to determined lemmings, they remind us of nature’s ability to adapt in even the toughest conditions.
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