The polar bear
Polar bears are well adapted for survival in the Arctic. They have:
- a white appearance, as camouflage from prey on the snow and ice
- thick layers of fat and fur, for insulation against the cold
- a small surface area to volume ratio, to minimise heat loss
- a greasy coat, which sheds water after swimming.
The snowshoe hare
The snowshoe hare has white fur in the winter and reddish-brown fur in the summer. This means that it is camouflaged from its predators for most of the year.
The camel
The camel is adapted to life in a hot climate
Camels live in deserts that are hot and dry during the day, but cold at night. They are well adapted for survival in the desert. Camels have:
- Large, flat feet to spread their weight on the sand.
- Thick fur on the top of the body for shade, and thin fur elsewhere to allow easy heat loss.
- A large surface area to volume ratio to maximise heat loss.
- The ability to go for a long time without water (they don't store water in their humps, but they lose very little through urination and sweating).
- The ability to tolerate body temperatures up to 42°C.
- Slit-like nostrils and two rows of eyelashes to help keep the sand out.
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