Arctic Lemmings are small rodents native to the Arctic tundra of northern Europe, Asia, and North America. They have become iconic for their dramatic population fluctuations which can include large-scale migrations in response to overpopulation or food shortages.
The lemmings typically measure up to 8 inches long and weigh about 2 ounces, with short tails, gray fur, and dark eyes. Their diet consists primarily of grasses, mosses, and lichen that grows on the ground near the snow line in winter months; they also eat insects such as beetles, caterpillars, and other invertebrates found within their range.
These animals live around two years on average but can survive up to five years in captivity depending on environmental conditions. As a result of habitat loss due to climate change, arctic lemming populations are declining significantly throughout much of their range – however, some conservation efforts are being taken by local governments in areas where they still exist.
One interesting behavior exhibited by these animals is known as ‘lemming run’ or ‘lemming stampede’, when individuals will migrate together en masse towards unknown destinations at high speeds; this has been observed following bouts of overcrowding caused by successful breeding seasons when resources begin running low. It is thought that there may be an element of predator avoidance involved too; groups traveling together would make it more difficult for predators like foxes or owls to single out individual members from the herd.
Overall Arctic Lemmings play an important role in maintaining healthy ecosystems through grazing activities that keep vegetation growth under control; without them certain regions could be overrun with plants leading to further biodiversity losses across species lines. Despite current declines, hopefully measures like protected wildlife reserves established specifically for these creatures will help ensure future generations get a chance at seeing them thrive again!
We are excited to offer a miniature Arctic Lemming (currently in 1:6 scale) crafted by the talented Maya Pantic in our store!