Leming

Leming refers to a small, rodent found in the Arctic regions of Europe and Asia. These animals are known for their short tails, stocky bodies, and thick fur, which helps them survive in harsh, cold environments. Lemings are herbivores, primarily feeding on grasses, sedges, and other tundra vegetation. They play a crucial role in the Arctic ecosystem as a food source for various predators, including Arctic foxes, owls, and weasels.

Contrary to popular myth, lemmings do not commit mass suicide by jumping off cliffs. This misconception likely originated from observations of lemmings migrating in large numbers during population booms. Sometimes, during these migrations, they may encounter bodies of water or steep cliffs and some individuals might fall or drown, but this is not a deliberate act of self-destruction. Their populations are known to fluctuate significantly, with cycles of rapid increase followed by sharp declines. These population cycles are a natural phenomenon influenced by factors such as food availability and predation. Leming are generally solitary animals, coming together primarily to breed. They build their nests in burrows or under rocks.