Snowy environments are some of the harshest places on Earth, yet these regions are home to animals whose survival hinges on remarkable adaptations.
From fur and blubber to ingenious behaviors like hibernation, snow animals are built to endure the coldest climates.
So, what animals live in snow around the world? In this article, we’ll discuss 10 of our favorite animals that live in the cold and share how they manage to survive.
Polar Bear
With a thick layer of blubber beneath their translucent fur, these cold climate animals stay warm even in the harshest environments. Their black skin helps absorb heat from the faint Arctic sun, while fur-covered paws provide traction on slippery ice. Pregnant polar bears fast for months during winter, a hibernation-like adaptation that conserves energy while protecting their cubs.
Efforts to save the polar bears are more critical than ever. They’re endangered due to shrinking ice habitats and reduced hunting grounds.
Emperor Penguin
Emperor penguins boast dense, water-resistant feathers. These winter animals also have a thick layer of blubber to combat temperatures as low as -40°F (-40°C).
One of the many questions about penguins is how they protect their eggs during freezing months. The answer? They’ve been found to huddle together in tight groups and rotate positions to conserve warmth.
Like polar bears, their icy habitats are increasingly at risk. Fortunately, there are many organizations working hard to save the penguins and their future.
Harp Seal
The harp seal is perfectly equipped for life in freezing temperatures. A thick layer of blubber insulates these cold weather animals, while their sleek, hydrodynamic shape makes swimming in icy waters effortless.
The pups of these snow winter animals are born with fluffy white fur. This evolutionary trait helps them camouflage in their environment.
Like other cold weather animals on this list, harp seals’ environments are equally at risk. As the climate warms, conservation efforts to save the seals are increasingly important to ensure the survival of these animals that live in the cold.
Snow Leopard
The snow leopard blends seamlessly into the rugged mountains of Central and South Asia thanks to its dense, spotted fur. These majestic animals also have long, thick tails that wrap around their bodies for added warmth during freezing nights.
These snow animals coincidentally also have wide nasal cavities that help warm icy air before it enters their lungs. Sadly, habitat loss and poaching threaten the survival of these elusive predators that live in cold climates.
Arctic Wolf
These types of wolves are built to thrive in some of Earth’s most unforgiving climates. As cold weather animals, they have double-layered fur that insulates against biting winds and padded paws to help them traverse icy terrain.
Known for their stamina, Arctic wolves can endure extreme cold and survive for long periods with limited food. Despite their adaptability, these animals that live in the cold remain at risk due to habitat changes.
Arctic Fox
Arctic foxes are the ultimate icy-weather survivor, living in temperatures as low as -58°F (-50°C). The compact bodies of these animals that live in the cold help them minimize heat loss, while their fluffy tails act as a built-in blanket.
Even their feet are covered in fur to prevent frostbite. It’s a trait that sets them apart as one of the most adaptable cold climate animals.
These winter animals also change their coat color seasonally: white in winter for camouflage and gray in summer for blending into rocky landscapes.
Musk Oxen
These cold weather animals feature a dual-layer coat: long guard hairs repel wind and snow, while soft underwool traps heat. During winter storms, musk oxen huddle tightly together to share warmth.
This combination of physical adaptations and communal behavior makes them standout animals that survive in the cold.
Arctic Hare
Arctic hares are built for life in snowy environments. The compact bodies and short ears of these animals that live in cold climates minimize heat loss, while their thick fur changes color seasonally.
These snow animals can reach speeds of up to 40 mph (60 kmh), which is invaluable for escaping predators in their icy habitats. These traits make them among the most durable cold weather animals on our list.
Snowy Owl
Snowy owls are one of the most recognizable animals that live in snow. They’re no doubt a symbol of Arctic resilience, and here’s why:
As cold climate animals, snowy owls have feathers to provide insulation against frigid temperatures and also provide camouflage. And thanks to specialized leg and foot feathers, these winter animals are unique in their ability to perch on icy surfaces without losing body heat.
Walrus
As one of the most enduring animals that live in cold climates, walruses rely on a thick layer of blubber to insulate it in sub-zero waters. They have long tusks that are essential tools for climbing onto icy surfaces and breaking through ice to breathe.
With their ability to thrive in frigid waters, walruses embody the strength of cold climate animals in extreme conditions.
How Do Animals Survive in the Cold?
Surviving in snowy environments requires remarkable adaptations. From blubber and fur to seasonal camouflage, these winter animals evolved to be resilient. Many also rely on behavioral strategies, such as huddling or hibernation, to conserve energy and warmth.
At Fahlo, we’re inspired by these animals that live in cold climates. Through our bracelets and plushes that let you track real wildlife in the world, we’ve donated millions to wildlife conservation since 2018. Join us in raising awareness about their survival by purchasing one of our gifts today.