Dudley Zoo welcomes Arctic Fox cubs for the first time - see the adorable photos

Dudley Zoo has welcomed the birth of its first-ever litter of Arctic fox cubs.

Keepers at the Castle Hill attraction have spotted eight cubs, known as kits, but think there may be more to appear as Arctic fox litter sizes can vary.

Under the watchful care of their parents, Grace and Spruce, the cubs appeared just in time for the half-term guests. The sight has brought immense joy to the zoo staff and a handful of lucky guests had the chance to see the new arrivals.

The cubs, who have been living in underground tunnels with their mother since birth, are about six weeks old.

Dudley Zoo and Castle carnivore section leader Sam Grove said: “Their arrival is extra special as it’s the first time we’ve bred Arctic foxes here at Dudley Zoo.”

Both parents, Grace and Spruce, are first-time parents and are doing incredibly well. Spruce has been seen guarding the burrow entrance and bringing food to Grace.

Grace, who is two years old, arrived at Dudley Zoo in November 2022, while one-year-old Spruce joined her in October of the same year.

“Since we re-introduced Arctic foxes to the collection in 2019, they’ve proved to be a really popular species with visitors, who we know will be as excited to see the babies as we are,” added Grove.

Arctic foxes are known to be a monogamous species and mate for life. Gestation is around six weeks and they can have two litters in a year, with the babies sporting a dark velvety coat.

Here are the adorable pictures of the eight cubs: