Animal Adaptation – Importance, Types, and Examples

Introduction:

The process of adjustment in a particular environment is called adaptation, which is the same with animals.​

It is the process of change by which an organism or species becomes better suited to its environment.

Let’s discuss the adaptation of animals in detail.

Explanation:

Adaptation in Animals:

Adaptations are special features in animals that help them survive.

Animals adapt themselves in the following ways:

• For habitat
• For food habit
• For protecting themselves
• For surviving extreme heat and cold

What is a Habitat?

The place where animals usually live and grow in nature is called their habitat. Some examples are given below.

Examples of Adaptations in Animals

Adaptations in Camel

A camel has long eyelashes to keep sand out of its eyes.

They have nostrils that close to keep sand out.

They have a hump to store water. 

They have a thick coat of hair for protection from the Sun.

Adaptations in a Giraffe

Giraffes have long necks that help them reach their favorite food.

The giraffe’s patterned spots and light tan to dark brown coloring help camouflage the animal in the grassland environment.

Adaptation in Polar Bears

Polar bears have webbed feet for swimming and walking on snow.

They have a thick layer of fat for warmth.

They have special transparent fur for camouflage.

Adaptations in Monkey

A tail helps them to swing and balance their bodies. It also helps them to pick food.

They have long arms and legs to help them swing.

They make different sounds to locate and greet each other.

Adaptations in Elephant

They have long ears that help them to keep cool in a hot and humid climate.

They have tusks for protection and gathering food.

They have trunks for smelling, drinking, and gathering food.

They have large round legs and feet to support their weight.

Adaptations in Cats

A cat’s eyes are adapted for hunting at night.

Cats also have retractable claws for climbing, hunting, and defending themselves.

Summary

• The process of change by which an organism or species becomes better suited to its environment is called adaptation.
• Adaptations are special features in animals that help them survive.
• Animals adapt to protect themselves and to survive extreme heat and cold.
• The place where animals usually live and grow in nature is called their habitat.
• A camel has long eyelashes to keep sand out of its eyes.
• Giraffes have long necks that help them reach their favorite food.
• Polar bears have webbed feet for swimming and walking on snow.