Musk Ox

The musk ox (Ovibos moschatus) is a large, sturdy mammal native to the Arctic regions of North America and Greenland, as well as some parts of northern Europe and Russia. Known for its long, shaggy coat and impressive horns, the musk ox is well-adapted to the harsh conditions of the tundra.

Both males and females have long, curved horns that form a protective shield on their foreheads. These horns are used for defence and during mating season in dominance battles.

Their thick, woolly undercoat, called qiviut, is one of the warmest natural fibres in the world. This coat insulates them against freezing temperatures and is shed in the summer.

The rutting season occurs from late summer to early fall. After a gestation period of about eight months, females give birth to a single calf in the spring. Calves are born with a thick coat and can walk shortly after birth.

Young musk oxen stay with their mothers and the herd for protection during their first few years of life.