Lemmus lemmus (Linnaeus, 1758)

Color Patterns

Two different color patterns are found in Lemmus lemmus. The mainland Norway lemming has a variable bold pattern of black and yellow-brown across individuals, while the Novaya Zemlya lemming has cryptic gray coloration — this gray color is why this population was previously considered part of the Siberian brown lemming.

Size and Weight

This species reaches a total length of 155 mm (6.1 in), with a very short tail measuring 10–19 mm (3⁄8–3⁄4 in), and can weigh up to 130 g (4.6 oz).

Dental Formula

Its dental formula is 1/1, 0/0, 3/3.

Current Distribution

Currently, the species is known to have a wide distribution ranging from western Norway east to the Kola Peninsula.

Proposed Range Extension

A 2021 study proposes that Novaya Zemlya lemmings also belong to this species, which would extend the species' range eastward to Novaya Zemlya island, but these findings have not been fully accepted by the scientific community.