Common Name: Nelson’s Collared Lemming

Scientific Name: Dicrostonyx nelsoni

Habitat:

Nelson’s Collared Lemming is primarily found in the Arctic tundra regions of North America, particularly in northern Canada and parts of Alaska. These lemmings thrive in areas with low vegetation, such as mosses, lichens, and grasses, where they create their burrows in the ground. Their habitat is characterized by cold climates, permafrost, and seasonal variations that impact their ecological environment.

Physical Characteristics:

This small rodent typically measures about 15 to 20 centimeters in length. Nelson’s Collared Lemming has a stocky body covered with coarse, short fur that varies in color from grayish-brown to light brown. They feature distinctive collar-like markings around their necks, which give them their name. Their short, rounded tails and large, furry feet are adaptations for moving through snow and across their tundra habitat.

Behavior:

Nelson’s Collared Lemming is known for its fascinating behaviors, especially its seasonal activity patterns. They are diurnal, meaning they are primarily active during the day, particularly during summer months when they forage for food. Lemmings are also known for their nomadic tendencies, undertaking migrations when food sources become scarce. Socially, they can exhibit both solitary and group behaviors, particularly during their breeding season.

Diet:

These lemmings primarily feed on a herbivorous diet consisting of grasses, sedges, and forbs. In winter, they tend to consume woody stems and roots, which they can dig out from under the snow. Nelson’s Collared Lemming plays a crucial role in the tundra ecosystem by aiding in nutrient cycling through their feeding habits.

Reproduction:

Nelson’s Collared Lemming typically breeds in late spring to early summer. The gestation period lasts around 20 days, after which the female gives birth to a litter of 2 to 8 young. Offspring are born blind and helpless, but they rapidly mature and are weaned within a few weeks. Notably, these lemmings can produce multiple litters in a single breeding season, contributing to population booms in favorable environmental conditions.

Conservation Status:

The current conservation status of Nelson’s Collared Lemming is not well-documented, but habitat loss and climate change pose potential threats. While not currently classified as endangered or vulnerable, ongoing monitoring is required to ensure their populations remain stable in response to environmental changes.

Interesting Facts:

One fascinating aspect of Nelson’s Collared Lemming is their role in folklore, where they are sometimes mistakenly thought to undergo mass migrations leading to mass deaths due to their sudden population booms. Additionally, these lemmings have a unique ability to store fat reserves to sustain them through harsh winters.

Role in Ecosystem:

Nelson’s Collared Lemming plays a vital role in the Arctic tundra ecosystem. They are a key food source for various predators, including snowy owls and arctic foxes. By feeding on vegetation and contributing to the nutrient cycle, they help maintain the health and balance of their habitat, forming an essential part of the tundra food web.