Arctic fox pups reach eight-year high in Norway

The breeding station at Sæterfjellet in Oppdal, Norway, has reported its highest number of arctic fox pups in eight years, with 42 cubs born from five large litters this summer.

The Norwegian Institute for Nature Research (Nina) attributes this success to a new vaccine that protects against puppy disease, parvovirus, infectious hepatitis, and parainfluenza. Veterinarian Marianne Waldum Furnes noted that vaccinating females is crucial for maintaining immunity and transferring antibodies to newborns.

The program aims to raise robust pups for release into the wild once they are seven to eight months old. To enhance genetic diversity, the station also incorporates wild-born foxes into the breeding process, a strategy researcher Kristine Ulvund described as highly successful despite the challenges of integrating new pairs.