Survival Adaptations in Nature

Olivia is studying polar bears for her school project. She learns that polar bears have a special adaptation that helps them survive in the Arctic. Which adaptation is it?

• Thin, short fur

• Thick, white fur

• Long, thin legs

• Brightly coloured feathers

Answer explanation

Thick, white fur helps polar bears insulate against the cold Arctic temperatures and provides camouflage in their snowy environment, making it essential for their survival.

Why do cacti have thick, fleshy stems?

• To attract insects

• To store water in dry environments

• To climb other plants

• To make them taste better to animals

Answer explanation

Cacti have thick, fleshy stems to store water, allowing them to survive in dry environments where water is scarce. This adaptation is crucial for their survival in arid conditions.

Which structural adaptation helps ducks swim easily in water?

• Sharp claws

• Webbed feet

• Long necks

• Pointed beaks

Answer explanation

Webbed feet are a key structural adaptation for ducks, allowing them to paddle efficiently in water. This adaptation increases their surface area, making swimming easier and more effective compared to other options.

How do pine trees survive in cold, snowy habitats?

• By having broad, flat leaves

• By having needle-like leaves and flexible branches

• By growing very tall quickly

• By producing sweet fruit

Answer explanation

Pine trees survive in cold, snowy habitats by having needle-like leaves that reduce water loss and flexible branches that can bend under the weight of snow, preventing breakage.

What adaptation helps a beaver build its home and gather food?

• Long, sticky tongue

• Strong, sharp front teeth

• Large, colourful tail

• Webbed wings

Answer explanation

Beavers have strong, sharp front teeth that allow them to cut down trees and gather wood for building their homes and dams. This adaptation is essential for their survival and habitat construction.

Liam and Mia are visiting a zoo and they notice a fennec fox. Liam wonders why the fennec fox has such large ears. What is the reason for this adaptation?

• To help them hear better underwater

• To keep them warm in cold weather

• To help release heat and keep cool

• To help them fly

Answer explanation

Desert animals like the fennec fox have large ears to help release heat and keep cool. The increased surface area allows for better heat dissipation, which is crucial in their hot environments.

Which adaptation helps a maple tree survive in Canada’s changing seasons?

• Shedding leaves in autumn

• Growing flowers in winter

• Producing fruit all year

• Having thorns on branches

Answer explanation

Shedding leaves in autumn helps maple trees conserve water and energy during the cold winter months, making it a crucial adaptation for surviving Canada's changing seasons.

How do the long roots of prairie grasses help them survive?

• By storing food above ground

• By reaching deep water sources underground

• By making the grass taller

• By attracting pollinators

Answer explanation

The long roots of prairie grasses help them survive by reaching deep water sources underground, allowing them to access moisture during dry periods, which is crucial for their growth and resilience.

What adaptation helps a turtle protect itself from predators?

• Brightly coloured skin

• Hard, protective shell

• Long, sticky tongue

• Large, webbed feet

Answer explanation

The hard, protective shell of a turtle serves as a defense mechanism against predators, allowing it to retreat inside for safety. This adaptation is crucial for its survival in the wild.

Eesha and Aiden were walking through a garden and noticed that some flowers had bright colours and strong scents. Why do these flowers have such characteristics?

• To scare away animals

• To attract pollinators like bees and butterflies

• To keep warm in winter

• To store more water

Answer explanation

Bright colors and strong scents in flowers serve to attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, which are essential for the process of pollination, helping plants reproduce.