Who are the predators of musk ox?
Wolves, bears, and man are the primary predators of muskoxen. They are also vulnerable to accidents, such as falling from cliffs or drowning, and starvation if deep snow or ice covers their food. Cows may live more than 20 years, but the average lifespan is much less.
How are musk ox adapted to their environment?
These animals have inhabited the Arctic for many thousands of years, and their long shaggy hair is well adapted to the frigid climate. The outer hairs, called guard hairs, cover a second, shorter undercoat that provides additional insulation in winter. This undercoat falls out when temperatures climb at winter’s end.
How fast can a musk ox run?
37 mphMaximum, Adult
Musk ox/Speed
What does a musk ox do when threatened?
When threatened, they “circle the wagons” and array themselves with their young in the middle and their sharp horns facing outward toward their foes. A cornered musk ox can be a fearsome enemy, charging with its massive bulk and attempting to use its horns to deadly effect.
Where does a musk ox live in the winter?
However, young Musk Ox are vulnerable to predators especially when newborn. Both male and female Musk Ox have broad, curling horns. During the summer, Musk Oxen live in wetlands, such as river valleys, moving to higher elevations in the winter to avoid the deep snow.
What do the horns on a musk oxen do?
On the males, the horns will combine to form a brow band called a “boss”. This boss is believed to protect the head of the male during rutting displays. Musk oxen have an extremely thick, two-layered coat: the outermost “guard hairs” cover a shorter layer of “qiviut” hairs.
How big does a male musk ox get?
Musk Ox stand around 1.2 metres (3 feet 11.2 inches) high at the shoulder. Males are larger than females. Their huge size means they have very few natural predators. However, young Musk Ox are vulnerable to predators especially when newborn. Both male and female Musk Ox have broad, curling horns.