The arctic fox is uniquely adapted to its environment with white fur for camouflage, a small nose and ears and warm coat to prevent heat loss and strong paws for running and hunting. Which statement best describes how the arctic fox population may have adapted to its environment over time? Choose the correct answer.

Foxes were bred to meet human needs for white fur.

Foxes developed smaller ears and noses in response to their cold climate. They were able to survive and pass this trait on to their offspring.

Foxes changed their fur to white to hide from predators and disguise themselves from their prey. They were able to survive and pass this trait on to their offspring.

Variation existed in the traits of the fox population. Foxes with smaller ears and noses were able to stay warmer and were more likely to survive and reproduce to pass their genes on to offspring. Over time, the fox population showed a shift to smaller ears and noses.