Yellowstone National Park - Winter Adaptations

In this video, park rangers Kate and Zack discuss how animals in Yellowstone adapt to harsh winter conditions. They introduce the MAD acronym, which stands for Migration, Adaptation, and Dormancy, to explain the survival strategies of various animals. Elk and bison migrate to lower elevations, while moose, lynx, and foxes adapt to the cold with physical traits. Marmots and grizzly bears enter dormancy to conserve energy. The session concludes with an invitation for questions and a preview of the next educational talk.

What are the main challenges animals face during a Yellowstone winter?

• Abundant food and mild weather

• Shorter days, deep snow, and cold temperatures

• Frequent rain and thunderstorms

• Longer days and warm temperatures

Why do elk migrate from high to low elevations during winter?

• To find less snow and more food

• To find more predators

• To encounter more snow

• To enjoy the view

How do bison adapt to snowy conditions in Yellowstone?

• By using their heads to plow through snow

• By flying south

• By swimming in hot springs

• By growing shorter fur

What adaptation helps lynx move efficiently in deep snow?

• Long tails

• Big paws acting like snowshoes

• Short legs

• Thick skin

How do foxes find food under the snow during winter?

• By digging randomly

• By following other animals

• By using their sense of smell

• By using their ears to hear rodents

What is unique about the yellow-bellied marmot's hibernation?

• It hibernates for only two months

• It increases its heart rate

• It hibernates for about eight months

• It stays active all winter

Why do grizzly bears not drop their body temperature as much as other hibernators?

• To stay alert for predators

• To wake up easily if needed

• To avoid freezing

• To conserve more energy