Polar bears (Ursus maritimus) are the largest land carnivores, as well as the largest species of bear. Native to the Arctic Circle, polar bears have evolved to be almost exclusively carnivorous, unlike other species within the genus, and rely on seals for the majority of their diet. Physically dissimilar from other bears, they have white fur and an elongated head, neck and body adapted to swimming. They also have a distinct muzzle shape that is often described as a "Roman nose." Polar bears hold a position at the top of the food chain in the tundra and are efficient, solitary hunters.
Arctic foxes (Vulpes lagopus) are small, scavenging carnivores native to the Arctic regions of North America, Asia and Europe. They are typically found along the coastline and on the tundra, in the same general habitat as polar bears. Arctic foxes are two to four feet long and weigh six to ten pounds on average. Their fur is subject to seasonal color variations--grayish-brown in summer and solid white in winter, although a rare genetic trait can produce bluish coats in some animals. Arctic foxes are not proficient hunters and generally subsist by scavenging meat left by polar bears and other carnivorous predators.
The snowy owl (Nyctea scandiaca) is a large, diurnal (active during the day) species native to the northern circumpolar region, above 60 degrees north latitude. It was once thought to be the sole species of the genus Nyctea, but recent DNA studies have concluded that it is a close relative of the great horned owl of the genus Bubo. Snowy owls are an easily identifiable species with white feathers that are often barred with black markings, vivid yellow eyes and a solid black beak. To cope with the extreme cold of their native habitat they possess a heavily feathered beak and feet. They prey primarily on rodents, particularly lemmings.
Native to the tundra regions of Europe and Russia, the tundra wolf (Canis lupus albus) is a subspecies of the gray wolf. Male tundra wolves can reach 60 inches in length with a 55-inch-long tail; females are markedly smaller. Their coat is a mix of bluish and reddish-gray and is similar to that of timber wolves. They travel in packs of five to ten and are extremely nomadic. Domestic animals are easy and desirable prey for tundra wolves, which has garnered them a bad reputation with some farmers and ranchers, but they also hunt hares, arctic foxes and other small animals.
