Which Arctic fox subspecies lives on Iceland and is Iceland’s only native land mammal?

The Icelandic Arctic fox is Iceland’s only native land mammal.

Arctic foxes reached Iceland before or during the last Ice Age, when sea ice or exposed land may have connected the island to mainland regions. After Iceland became isolated, its fox population remained the island’s sole native terrestrial mammal. Domestic animals and introduced species arrived much later with human settlement.

Icelandic Arctic foxes belong to the species Vulpes lagopus, which also inhabits tundra across the circumpolar north. Their coats occur in different color phases, including white and blue-gray forms. The coat provides camouflage and insulation, while the fox’s compact body, short ears, and furry footpads reduce heat loss.

The fox is not truly unique to Iceland as a species; Arctic foxes are widespread throughout the Northern Hemisphere. What makes the Icelandic population notable is its island history and status as Iceland’s only native land mammal.