ANIMAL ADAPTATION

In order for animals to survive, they need to be able to adapt. In a perfect world, animals would not need to adapt. However, with constant changes to their environment, food chain and climate, animals must adapt or face extinction. An adaptation is a trait that makes an animal suited to its environment. Adaptation can be a behavioral or a structural trait. Structural adaptation happens in the form of changing an animal’s genetic traits. The thick fur coat of an arctic fox is a structural adaptation. It helps protect it against the cold weather. Structural adaptation happens over a long period of time. Moving in large groups is a behavioral adaptation. It helps protect the members of the group from predators. Behavioral adaptation can happen far more quickly. The more intelligent an animal is the faster it can learn to make behavioral changes, in order to survive.

Examples of Adaptations of Animals / Reptiles by Camouflage: Camouflage is a type of adaptation that allows animals to blend in with their surroundings. This adaptation helps protect them from their enemies. An animal is much better able to "hide" by blending into its surroundings. On the other hand, camouflage also helps a predator "fit in" to its environment so that it won't be seen very easily as it comes up on its prey.

Chameleon: A chameleon can change its color according to its surroundings. Chameleon blends in so well with its surroundings that both predators and prey cannot see it. As the prey comes near striking distance the chameleon sticks the tongue out and catches it.

Arctic Fox: During summer months, the Arctic fox has a brown coat. During winter, the coat of the Arctic fox is white, matching its icy, snowy surroundings.

Examples of Adaptations of Animals by Hibernation:

Polar Bears: Hibernation helps animals survive the changing seasons. Foods that polar bears eat, such as fishes, berries and flowers, are much less available during cold winter months. When they hibernate, bears enter a deep sleep. They remain safe by hiding in dens. The bears' body functions, such as heartbeats and breathing, slow down. While they sleep, the bears can survive because their bodies live off of their stored fat or food. It's like nature's built-in battery cell. That's why bears eat plenty during autumn, in order to store up fat.