Adaptation to Cold Areas
Science: Year 5 & 6 National Curriculum, topic 8.1.1
Adaptation to Cold Areas
Plants and animals have special features that allow them to live in cold areas. These features are called 'adaptations'.
Tick fur
- Many animals that live in the Arctic and Antarctic have thick fur.
- Example: polar bears.
- The fur is thick to insulate them from the cold.
- The insulation keeps the animals warm.
White fur
- Many animals that live in the Arctic and Antarctic have thick fur.
- Example: arctic foxes.
- The fur is white to camouflage them from their prey.
Dark leaves
- Many plants that live in the Arctic and Antarctic have dark leaves.
- Example: arctic willow.
- The dark leaves absorb more sunlight, helping to increase temperature and photosynthesis rates.
Low growing
- Many plants that live in the Arctic and Antarctic are short.
- Example: moss campion.
- Plants stay close to the ground to avoid harsh winds and retain warmth.
Test yourself on Adaptation to Cold Areas
Why is it an advantage for an animal in the Arctic to have white fur?
What are adaptations to very cold areas?