23rd Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Wildlife
Amber Gaze

An Arctic fox’s white winter coat renders it almost invisible against the snowy backdrop of Churchill, Manitoba, Canada. The Arctic fox’s fur grants it another advantage besides camouflage—warmth. The warmest fur of any animal, Arctic foxes can live in –50°C temperatures. Its gaze stayed locked on the photographer as its picture was taken in 2025; its amber eyes and black nose were the only spots of color to be seen.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 03.2025
Date Uploaded: 11.2025
Photo Location: Churchill, Canada
Camera: Canon EOS R1
Copyright: © Nathan Myhrvold