Animal Adaptations
1. Structural (Physical) Adaptations
Changes in the body structure to survive.
Camouflage – helps hide from predators.
Chameleon: changes color to blend with surroundings.
Leaf insect: looks like a leaf.
Mimicry – copying another animal for protection.
Non-venomous snake mimicking a venomous snake.
Body coverings – fur, feathers, scales for protection.
Polar bears: thick fur and fat layer for cold.
Specialized body parts – unique organs or features.
Elephant trunk: grabs food and water.
Giraffe neck: reaches tall leaves.
Webbed feet: ducks swim efficiently.
2. Behavioral Adaptations
Changes in animal behavior for survival.
Migration – moving seasonally for food or climate.
Birds flying south in winter.
Hibernation – sleeping through harsh conditions.
Bears and hedgehogs in winter.
Nocturnal behavior – active at night.
Owls and bats avoid predators.
Social behavior – living or hunting in groups.
Wolves hunt in packs.
Tool use – using objects to aid survival.
Some birds use sticks to extract insects from trees.
3. Physiological (Functional) Adaptations
Internal body processes helping survival.
Temperature regulation – survive extreme climates.
Camels store fat in humps, conserve water.
Venom or poison – for defense or hunting.
Snakes, scorpions, poison dart frogs.
Bioluminescence – producing light.
Fireflies attract mates or confuse predators.
Salt excretion – survive in salty habitats.
Marine birds have salt glands.
4. Adaptations by Environment
Desert Animals
Camels: store fat in humps, conserve water, withstand heat.
Fennec fox: large ears release heat.
Arctic Animals
Polar bears: thick fur and fat for warmth, white for camouflage.
Arctic foxes: seasonal fur color change for camouflage.
Forest Animals
Monkeys: prehensile tails for swinging.
Leopards: spotted fur for blending with foliage.
Aquatic Animals
Fish: gills for oxygen, streamlined bodies for swimming.
Penguins: waterproof feathers, flippers for swimming.