lemmaks

Lemmings are small rodents belonging to the super family Muroidea and family Cricetidae. They are known for their short tails, stocky bodies, and thick fur, which often changes color with the seasons. Lemmings are found in the Arctic regions of Europe, Asia, and North America. They inhabit tundra and subarctic environments, typically living in burrows or under the snow. Their diet primarily consists of grasses, sedges, mosses, and roots.

Lemmings are famous for their population cycles, which can fluctuate dramatically over several years. During peak population years, their numbers can increase exponentially, leading to widespread foraging and movement. This phenomenon has historically led to the misconception that lemmings commit mass suicide by jumping off cliffs. However, scientific studies have shown that these apparent mass movements are usually a consequence of population explosions where large numbers of lemmings migrate in search of new food sources and habitats. During these migrations, they may encounter natural barriers like bodies of water or cliffs, and some individuals may indeed perish, but this is not a deliberate act of self-destruction. Instead, it is a survival strategy in response to resource scarcity and overcrowding.