The presence of the Arctic fox (Vulpes lagopus) during the last glaciation in north-western Italy (Buco del Frate, Brescia)

This work examines the fox assemblage (genus Vulpes) from the Buco del Frate cave (dated to MIS3, 41.130–40.465 ka cal. BC) in north-western Italy, providing new insights into the presence of the Arctic fox (Vulpes lagopus) during the Last Glacial Period. Multivariate morphometric analysis of skeletal remains identified some very small specimens, among a predominantly red fox (Vulpes vulpes) sample, revealing the presence of the Artic fox at Buco del Frate. This represents the fourth presence of Vulpes lagopus in the Italian fossil record, alongside previous findings from Grotta di Fumane, Grotticelle di Sambughetto and Grotta Romanelli. The rarity of Arctic fox remains in Italy suggests its presence was sporadic, likely influenced by the country's topography, notably the Alpine barrier. However, steppe-like environments during the last glacial cycle may have facilitated the dispersal of the Arctic fox into southern Europe. Previous palaeoclimatic and palaeoenvironmental reconstructions are consistent with the occurrence of the Arctic fox during MIS3 in the Buco del Frate cave area, alongside cold-adapted species such as the marmot and wolverine.