Lemming

Lemmings are small rodents in the subfamily Arvicolinae, found in northern parts of North America, Europe, and Asia, especially Arctic and subarctic habitats.

Lemmings are small rodents in the subfamily Arvicolinae, found in northern parts of North America, Europe, and Asia, especially Arctic and subarctic habitats. They are known for population cycles and occasional large migrations, which have contributed to popular myths about mass suicide that are not true.

Classification and species

Lemmings are rodents in the subfamily Arvicolinae, alongside voles and muskrats. Sources describe about 20 species, with genera including Lemmus, Dicrostonyx, Myopus, and Synaptomys.

Habitat and range

Lemmings live in northern environments such as Arctic tundra, taiga, and other cold habitats across North America, Europe, and Asia. They are adapted to cold conditions with thick fur and burrowing behavior.

Diet and behaviour

Lemmings are mainly herbivores, feeding on grasses, mosses, roots, sedges, and related vegetation. Their populations can fluctuate dramatically, and some species migrate when food availability or population density changes.

Cultural myths

Lemmings are widely associated with the false claim that they commit mass suicide by running off cliffs or into the sea. Britannica Kids states this is untrue; lemmings generally try to avoid water, though accidental drowning can occur during movement or migration.