The Arctic Fox (Alopex lagopus or Vulpes lagopus), also known as the White Fox or Snow Fox, lives in some of the most frigid extremes on the planet. Among its adaptations for cold survival are its deep, thick fur. The fox has a low surface area to volume ratio, as evidenced by its generally rounded body shape, short muzzle and legs, and short, thick ears. Since less of its surface area is exposed to the Arctic cold, less heat escapes the body.