Viking Cruises

Viking Explorer Society News - Issue 27 - Spring 2025

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ARCTIC FOX Camouflaged against the snow, the Arctic fox is a marvel of adaptation, their thick fur coat and fluffy tail keeps them warm. This small predator has keen senses and nimble agility, allowing it to hunt small rodents and scavenge for food. It endures extreme cold by digging intricate dens in the snow. The Arctic fox's resilience and resourcefulness make it a true survivor in the Arctic environment, embodying the spirit of the North's wild beauty. ARCTIC HARE The Arctic hare, with its dense white fur, provides camouflage against the snow, keeping it well hidden from predators. With powerful hind legs, it bounds across the snowy landscapes with a remarkable speed of up to 60 km an hour. The Arctic hare has evolved to withstand the extreme cold, relying on its ability to dig burrows in the snow for shelter. The Arctic hare thrives amidst icy horizons, embodying the tenacity and beauty of the Arctic wilderness. MUSK OXEN The musk oxen roam the vast tundra in tightly knit herds. Their shaggy coats, consisting of long guard hairs and a warm underlayer, protect them from freezing temperatures. These sturdy herbivores use their powerful horns to defend against predators. During harsh winters, they form a defensive circle, with adults facing outward to shield the vulnerable young from threats. With their stoic presence and ancient lineage, musk oxen symbolise endurance and unity in the face of adversity, embodying the spirit of survival in the Arctic's unforgiving landscapes. From top: Arctic fox; Arctic hare "e wetlands and shores serve as vital breeding grounds for a multitude of bird species, making them havens for ornithologists and bird enthusiasts." viking.com | 70 S P R I N G I S S U E 2 7

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