Animals of the Tundra: Adaptations, Images & Facts

The tundra biome is one of the harshest environments on Earth, characterized by long, cold winters and short, cool summers. Despite the extreme conditions, many animals have adapted to survive in this unforgiving landscape. From polar bears to Arctic foxes, these animals have developed a range of physical and behavioral adaptations that allow them to thrive in this biome. Let’s take a look at some of the animals of the tundra!

Printable fact cards of these animals are included in the Tundra Biome Unit, along with 7 other activities to learn about the tundra

Animals of the Arctic Tundra
Animals of the Antarctic Tundra
Animals of the Alpine Tundra
About the Tundra Biome
- Climate Conditions
Adaptations of Animals of the Tundra
Frequently Asked Questions
More About the Tundra

Animals of the Arctic Tundra

Arctic Bumblebee (Bombus polaris)

The Arctic Bumblebee is adapted to cold climates and has a thick coat of hair to keep warm. It’s crucial for pollinating various Arctic flowers during the short summer months.

Average Size: 1.5-2 cm in length
Diet: Herbivore (feeds on nectar and pollen)
Endangered: Not currently endangered
Habitat: On land
Classification: Invertebrate (Insect)

Arctic Char (Salvelinus alpinus)

The Arctic Char is closely related to both salmon and lake trout, and is known for its remarkable adaptability to different environmental conditions. It can be found in both freshwater and saltwater, and its coloration varies greatly.

Average Size: Typically 30-40 cm in length, can grow larger
Diet: Carnivore (feeds on smaller fish, insects, and plankton)
Endangered: Not currently endangered
Habitat: In water, both in freshwater lakes and rivers, and in the sea
Classification: Fish

Arctic Fox

The Arctic Fox is known for its thick, white fur that helps it blend into the snowy environment. It’s well-adapted to the harsh Arctic climate and has a keen sense of hearing, used for locating prey under the snow. Find an arctic fox worksheet here.

Average Size: 75-115 cm in length including tail
Diet: Carnivore
Endangered: Not currently endangered
Habitat: Predominantly on land
Classification: Mammal

Arctic Ground Squirrel

The Arctic Ground Squirrel is a small rodent known for its remarkable adaptation to the extreme cold of the Arctic tundra. It has a short, thick body with a bushy tail and exhibits a unique behavior of hibernation, where it can lower its body temperature to just above freezing – the lowest known of any mammal. These squirrels are vital for aerating the soil through their burrowing activities and serve as a key food source for predators.

Average Size: 25-30 cm in length, with a tail length of 8-10 cm
Diet: Omnivore (feeds on seeds, nuts, fruits, insects, and small vertebrates)
Endangered: Not currently endangered
Habitat: Predominantly on land, in burrows within the tundra and boreal forest regions.
Classification: Mammal

Arctic Hare

This species is larger than most rabbits and is characterized by its white winter fur. Arctic Hares are known for their incredible speed and agility, which helps them escape predators. Find an arctic hare comprehension worksheet here.

Average Size: 43-70 cm in length
Diet: Herbivore
Endangered: Not currently endangered
Habitat: On land
Classification: Mammal

Arctic Springtail (Onychiurus arcticus)

Arctic Springtails are tiny, wingless insects that play a crucial role in the tundra ecosystem as decomposers. They have a unique ability to withstand freezing temperatures.

Average Size: 1-2 mm in length
Diet: Omnivore (feeds on decaying plant matter, fungi, and algae)
Endangered: Not currently endangered
Habitat: On land, often under snow
Classification: Invertebrate (Hexapod)

Arctic Tern

The Arctic Tern is famous for its long migratory journey, traveling from the Arctic to the Antarctic and back each year. It’s a small, agile bird, known for its endurance and longevity.

Average Size: 28-39 cm in length
Diet: Carnivore (mainly fish and small marine invertebrates)
Endangered: Least Concern
Habitat: Predominantly in the air and on water
Classification: Bird

Arctic Wolf

The Arctic Wolf, a subspecies of the gray wolf, is adapted to the Arctic’s extreme cold. It has a thick coat and smaller ears to minimize heat loss and preys on various Arctic animals.

Average Size: 1-1.5 meters in length
Diet: Carnivore
Endangered: Not currently endangered
Habitat: On land
Classification: Mammal

Arctic Woolly Bear Moth (Gynaephora groenlandica)

Animals of the Tundra- woolly bear caterpillar

This moth species is known for its incredibly long larval stage, which can last up to 14 years. The larvae survive freezing temperatures by producing a natural antifreeze.

Average Size: Larvae up to 5 cm in length
Diet: Herbivore (feeds on Arctic willows and other tundra plants)
Endangered: Not currently endangered
Habitat: On land
Classification: Invertebrate (Insect)

Beluga Whale

Known for their distinctive white color and vocal behavior, Beluga Whales are highly sociable mammals. They have a flexible neck and can express facial emotions, which is unique among whales.

Average Size: 4-6 meters in length
Diet: Carnivore
Endangered: Near Threatened
Habitat: Predominantly in water
Classification: Mammal

Caribou/Reindeer

Caribou are large, hoofed mammals famous for their annual long-distance migrations, which are among the longest of any terrestrial mammal. They have unique adaptations for the Arctic environment, including large, fur-covered hooves that provide stability on snow and a thick coat that insulates them from the cold. Caribou are also well-known for their role in indigenous cultures and folklore.

Average Size: 1.2-2.2 meters in length; 1.0-1.5 meters at shoulder height
Diet: Herbivore (feeds on lichens, mosses, ferns, grasses, and leaves)
Endangered: Some subspecies are considered vulnerable or endangered due to habitat loss and other factors.
Habitat: Predominantly on land, in Arctic and subarctic regions
Classification: Mammal

Common Eider

The Common Eider is a large sea duck known for its down feathers, which are used by humans for insulation. These birds are social and often form large flocks on coastal waters.

Average Size: 50-71 cm in length
Diet: Omnivore (mollusks, crustaceans, and some plant material)
Endangered: Near Threatened
Habitat: In water and on land
Classification: Bird

Ermine

The Ermine, also known as the Stoat, is a small, slender mustelid known for its agility and adaptability. In the winter, its fur turns completely white, except for the tip of its tail, which remains black, helping it blend into snowy environments. Ermines are active predators, known for their ability to take down prey much larger than themselves, including rabbits and rodents.

Average Size: 17-32 cm in body length, with a 7-12 cm tail
Diet: Carnivore
Endangered: Not currently endangered, but populations are affected by habitat loss and other environmental changes.
Habitat: Predominantly on land, in a variety of habitats including forests, grasslands, and tundra.
Classification: Mammal

Greenland Shark (Somniosus microcephalus)

The Greenland Shark is one of the Arctic’s most mysterious creatures. Known for its extremely slow growth rate, it’s one of the longest-living vertebrates known. These sharks are often found in deep, cold Arctic waters.

Average Size: Typically 2.5-4.5 meters in length, can grow larger
Diet: Carnivore (wide range, including fish, seals, and carrion)
Endangered: Near Threatened
Habitat: Deep in the ocean, primarily in Arctic and North Atlantic waters
Classification: Fish

Gyrfalcon

The Gyrfalcon is the largest of the falcon species and is known for its powerful flight and hunting skills. It preys on large birds and small mammals and is revered in falconry.

Average Size: 48-61 cm in length
Diet: Carnivore
Endangered: Least Concern
Habitat: On land
Classification: Bird

Ice Worm (Mesenchytraeus solifugus)

Ice Worms are remarkable for their ability to live in glacial ice. They are one of the few organisms that can survive and be active in such cold habitats.

Average Size: 1-3 cm in length
Diet: Omnivore (feeds on microscopic algae and pollen)
Endangered: Not currently endangered
Habitat: On ice and snow surfaces
Classification: Invertebrate (Annelid)

Lemmings

Lemmings are small rodents characterized by their short tails, stubby legs, and long, soft fur. Adapted to cold environments, they are found in Arctic tundra regions where they play a crucial role in the food web, serving as prey for various predators. Lemmings are also known for their remarkable ability to reproduce rapidly, which contributes to their population cycles.

Average Size: 13-18 cm in length
Diet: Herbivore (primarily feeds on grasses, mosses, and other tundra vegetation)
Endangered: Not currently endangered, but populations can fluctuate significantly.
Habitat: Predominantly on land, specifically in tundra regions.
Classification: Mammal

Musk Ox

The Musk Ox is a robust animal known for its thick coat and strong, musky odor, from which it gets its name. Adapted to survive in the harsh Arctic environment, it has a thick, woolly undercoat known as qiviut, which is warmer than sheep’s wool and softer than cashmere. Musk Oxen are social animals, often forming defensive circles against predators like wolves. They are herbivores, grazing on Arctic grasses, mosses, and lichens.

Average Size: 1.4-2.4 meters in length; 1.0-1.5 meters at shoulder height
Diet: Herbivore
Endangered: Not currently endangered, but their populations are subject to fluctuations due to environmental factors.
Habitat: on land, in Arctic tundra regions
Classification: Mammal

Narwhal

Narwhals are famous for their long, spiral tusks, which are actually elongated teeth. They are social animals, often found in groups, and are known for their deep dives in Arctic waters.

Average Size: 4-5.5 meters in length
Diet: Carnivore
Endangered: Near Threatened
Habitat: In water
Classification: Mammal

Polar Bear

The largest land carnivore, Polar Bears are top predators in the Arctic ecosystem. They have a thick layer of body fat and water-repellent fur, making them well-suited for the cold environment.

Average Size: 2-3 meters in length
Diet: Carnivore
Endangered: Vulnerable
Habitat: Both on land and in water
Classification: Mammal

Puffin

Puffins are small seabirds with colorful beaks. They are excellent swimmers, using their wings to ‘fly’ underwater while hunting for fish.

Average Size: 25-30 cm in length
Diet: Carnivore
Endangered: Not currently endangered
Habitat: On land and in water
Classification: Bird

Red-throated Loon

Known for its striking red throat patch during the breeding season, the Red-throated Loon is a skilled diver, feeding on fish in Arctic waters. It’s smaller and more agile than most other loon species.

Average Size: 55-67 cm in length
Diet: Carnivore (primarily fish)
Endangered: Least Concern
Habitat: In water and on land
Classification: Bird

Snow Bunting

Snow Buntings are small passerine birds with a distinctive white and black plumage in males during the breeding season. They are hardy birds, breeding in the high Arctic and wintering in temperate zones.

Average Size: 14-18 cm in length
Diet: Omnivore (seeds and insects)
Endangered: Least Concern
Habitat: On land
Classification: Bird

Snowy Owl

Famous for their white plumage, Snowy Owls are highly adapted to life in the Arctic. They are one of the few owls that hunt mainly during the day.

Average Size: 52-71 cm in length
Diet: Carnivore
Endangered: Not currently endangered
Habitat: On land
Classification: Bird

Walrus

Walruses are easily recognizable by their long tusks and whiskers. They are social animals, often found lounging on ice floes in large groups.

Average Size: 2.2-3.6 meters in length
Diet: Omnivore
Endangered: Vulnerable
Habitat: Both in water and on land
Classification: Mammal

Animals of the Tundra- Chinstrap Penguin

Animals of the Antarctic Tundra

Antarctic Fur Seal

These seals are smaller than most other seal species and have a thick fur coat. They are highly agile in water and spend a significant amount of time hunting for food.

Average Size: 1.5-2 meters in length
Diet: Carnivore (mainly krill, fish, and squid)
Endangered: Not currently endangered
Habitat: Coastal regions and in water
Classification: Mammal

Antarctic Krill

Krill are small crustaceans that form large swarms and are a crucial part of the Antarctic food web, serving as the primary diet for many species.

Average Size: Up to 6 cm in length
Diet: Omnivore (phytoplankton and zooplankton)
Endangered: Not currently endangered
Habitat: In water
Classification: Invertebrate

Antarctic Midges

The Antarctic Midge is the largest purely terrestrial animal native to the continent. Despite its small size, it’s a survivor, enduring extreme conditions.

Average Size: Up to 6 mm in length
Diet: Omnivore (algae, moss, and organic debris)
Endangered: Not currently endangered
Habitat: On land
Classification: Invertebrate (Insect)

Antarctic Silverfish

The Antarctic Silverfish is a key species in the Southern Ocean ecosystem. It has a silver, elongated body and is a primary food source for many larger predators, including seals and penguins.

Average Size: 15-20 cm in length
Diet: Omnivore (feeds on krill, copepods, and other small organisms)
Endangered: Not currently endangered
Habitat: In water, primarily under sea ice
Classification: Fish

Antarctic Toothfish

This large fish is well-adapted to the cold waters of the Southern Ocean and is a key predator in its ecosystem. It has antifreeze proteins in its blood to prevent freezing.

Average Size: Up to 2 meters in length
Diet: Carnivore (fish and invertebrates)
Endangered: Near Threatened
Habitat: Deep in the ocean
Classification: Fish

Blue Whale

The Blue Whale, the largest animal ever known to have existed, frequents Antarctic waters. These majestic creatures are known for their immense size and haunting songs.

Average Size: Up to 30 meters in length
Diet: Carnivore (primarily krill)
Endangered: Endangered
Habitat: In water
Classification: Mammal

Chinstrap Penguin

Named for the narrow black band under their heads, Chinstrap Penguins are among the most numerous penguins. They are known for their loud, harsh calls and live in large, noisy colonies.

Average Size: 68-76 cm in height
Diet: Carnivore (mainly krill, but also fish and small crustaceans)
Endangered: Least Concern
Habitat: On ice and in surrounding waters
Classification: Bird

Emperor Penguin

The Emperor Penguin, the largest of all penguin species, is renowned for its remarkable breeding cycle, which takes place during the harsh Antarctic winter. These penguins are highly social and collaborative, often huddling together in large groups to conserve warmth in the extreme cold. Their ability to dive up to 500 meters deep and stay underwater for around 20 minutes makes them exceptional hunters, primarily feeding on fish, krill, and squid. The Emperor Penguin’s distinct vocalizations and intricate social behaviors, especially in caring for their young in one of the world’s most unforgiving climates, make them a symbol of endurance and cooperation in the animal kingdom.

Average Size: 115-122 cm in height
Diet: Carnivore (mainly fish, krill, and squid)
Endangered: Near Threatened
Habitat: On ice and in surrounding waters
Classification: Bird

Leopard Seal

Leopard Seals are top predators in the Antarctic ecosystem, known for their powerful build and distinctive spotted coat. They are formidable hunters, preying on penguins, fish, and even other seals.

Average Size: 2.4-3.5 meters in length
Diet: Carnivore (penguins, fish, and other seals)
Endangered: Least Concern
Habitat: In water and on ice
Classification: Mammal

Orca (Killer Whale)

Animals of the Tundra- Orca or Killer whale

The Orca, or Killer Whale, is a highly intelligent and social marine mammal known for its striking black and white coloring. As apex predators, they are versatile hunters, feeding on fish, seals, and sometimes even larger whales. Orcas are found in all oceans but are particularly prevalent in colder waters, including those of the Arctic and Antarctic. They live in complex social structures known as pods, which are often led by females and have sophisticated communication methods.

Average Size: Males can reach up to 8-9 meters in length, while females are slightly smaller, typically around 7 meters.
Diet: Carnivore
Endangered: Some populations are considered endangered or threatened, largely due to habitat loss, pollution, and reduced prey availability.
Habitat: Predominantly in water, ranging from the open ocean to coastal areas.
Classification: Mammal

Snow Petrel

The Snow Petrel is a pure white bird with black eyes and beak, known for its ability to live further south than any other bird species.

Average Size: 30-40 cm in length
Diet: Carnivore (fish, krill, and squid)
Endangered: Least Concern
Habitat: Coastal cliffs and in the air
Classification: Bird

Southern Elephant Seal

The Southern Elephant Seal is the largest of all seals, known for its massive size and the males’ large, inflatable noses. They spend most of their lives in the ocean but come ashore for breeding.

Average Size: Males up to 6 meters, females up to 3 meters in length
Diet: Carnivore (fish, squid, and other marine animals)
Endangered: Least Concern
Habitat: In water and on land (breeding beaches)
Classification: Mammal

Weddell Seal

Known for its ability to thrive under the ice, the Weddell Seal has a docile nature and is a skilled diver, able to hold its breath for over an hour.

Average Size: 2.5-3.5 meters in length
Diet: Carnivore (fish, squid, and krill)
Endangered: Least Concern
Habitat: Ice floes and in water
Classification: Mammal

Animals of the Alpine Tundra

Alpine Chough

Known for their acrobatic flight and sociable nature, these birds are often seen in large flocks. They have a distinctive yellow beak and red legs.

Common Regions: Mountain ranges across Europe, North Africa, and Asia, including the Alps and the Himalayas.
Average Size: 37-39 cm in length
Diet: Omnivore
Endangered: Least Concern
Habitat: On land and in the air
Classification: Bird

Alpine Ibex

Known for their impressive curved horns, these wild goats are adapted to life in rugged terrain and are excellent climbers.

Common Regions: European Alps, with reintroduction efforts in areas where they were previously extinct.
Average Size: 90-101 cm at shoulder height
Diet: Herbivore
Endangered: Least Concern
Habitat: On land
Classification: Mammal

Alpine Marmot

These large ground squirrels are known for their social behavior and hibernation habits. They have a sturdy build and a loud whistle to communicate.

Common Regions: Throughout the European Alps, Carpathian Mountains, and other mountain ranges in Europe.
Average Size: 42-54 cm in length
Diet: Herbivore
Endangered: Not currently endangered
Habitat: On land
Classification: Mammal

Bighorn Sheep

Bighorn Sheep are notable for their large, curved horns and sturdy build, adapted to the rugged mountainous terrains of North America, including the alpine tundra. They are known for their exceptional agility and balance, which allows them to traverse steep and rocky slopes with ease. Bighorn Sheep live in herds and are highly social animals, with rams (males) known for their dramatic head-butting displays during mating seasons. Their coat color varies from light brown to grayish or dark, and they have a white rump and a short tail.

Average Size: Males (rams) can weigh between 127-316 kg and stand around 90-105 cm at the shoulder; females (ewes) are smaller.
Diet: Herbivore
Endangered: Not currently endangered, but some populations are protected due to habitat loss and past overhunting.
Habitat: Predominantly on land, in mountainous regions including alpine tundra.
Classification: Mammal

Chamois

A goat-antelope species, Chamois are agile climbers known for their distinctive black stripes below their eyes. They are well adapted to living in rugged, mountainous terrains.

Common Regions: Mountains of Europe, including the Alps, Pyrenees, and Carpathians.
Average Size: 70-80 cm at shoulder height
Diet: Herbivore
Endangered: Least Concern
Habitat: On land
Classification: Mammal

Himalayan Tahr

Similar to wild goats, these animals have thick, reddish-brown fur and are excellent climbers, often found on steep, rocky slopes.

Common Regions: Native to the Himalayas in Nepal, northern India, and Tibet.
Average Size: 90-140 cm in length
Diet: Herbivore
Endangered: Near Threatened
Habitat: On land
Classification: Mammal

Mountain Goat

Known for their thick white fur and impressive climbing abilities, these animals are adept at navigating steep, rocky terrains.

Common Regions: North American mountain ranges, including the Rocky Mountains and Cascade Range.
Average Size: 1.3-1.5 meters in length
Diet: Herbivore
Endangered: Not currently endangered
Habitat: Predominantly on land
Classification: Mammal

Pika

Small, mountain-dwelling mammals related to rabbits, Pikas are known for their sharp, bark-like calls. They are active collectors of food, which they store for the winter months.

Common Regions: Mountain ranges in North America and Asia, including the Rocky Mountains and the Himalayas.
Average Size: 15-23 cm in length
Diet: Herbivore
Endangered: Some species are considered at risk due to climate change
Habitat: On land, among rocks
Classification: Mammal

Ptarmigan

These birds are well-adapted to cold climates, with feathered feet and seasonal plumage that changes color to blend with the snow or rocks.

Common Regions: Found in mountainous regions across the Arctic, Europe, and North America.
Average Size: 34-36 cm in length
Diet: Omnivore
Endangered: Not currently endangered
Habitat: On land
Classification: Bird

Snow Leopard

With a beautiful spotted coat, these elusive big cats are adapted to cold, mountainous environments and are known for their agility in steep terrain.

Common Regions: Mountain ranges of Central and South Asia, including the Himalayas and the Tibetan Plateau.
Average Size: 90-130 cm in body length
Diet: Carnivore
Endangered: Vulnerable
Habitat: On land
Classification: Mammal

Animals of the tundra collage with polar bear walrus ptarmigan and musk ox

About the Tundra Biome

The tundra biome is a vast, treeless region that is found in the polar and mountainous regions of the world. It is characterized by extremely cold temperatures, strong winds, and a short growing season.

The tundra is divided into two main types: polar tundra and alpine tundra. The polar tundra is found in the northernmost parts of the world, including Greenland, Canada, and Russia, and in the sourthernmost part of the world, around Antarctica. The alpine tundra is found in mountainous regions around the world, such as the Rocky Mountains and the Swiss Alps.

Learn about other types of biomes

Climate Conditions

One of the most notable features of the tundra is its permafrost, which is a layer of permanently frozen soil that can be several feet thick. This layer prevents water from draining away, creating wet, marshy conditions that are ideal for certain types of plants and animals.

The temperature in the tundra can range from -34°C in winter to 12°C in summer. The tundra has a short summer season, with temperatures barely rising above freezing. The winter season is long and cold, with temperatures dropping below freezing. The tundra experiences strong winds, which can cause wind chill and make the already cold temperatures feel even colder.

The Tundra experiences a brief period of thaw in the summer, which lasts for only a few weeks. During this time, the top layer of soil thaws, allowing plants to grow. However, the thaw is short-lived, and the ground quickly freezes again in the fall.

Adaptations of Animals of the Tundra

Despite the harsh conditions, the tundra is home to a surprising variety of plant and animal life. Some of the most common animals found in the tundra include caribou, musk oxen, Arctic foxes, and polar bears. These animals have adapted to the cold temperatures by growing thick fur coats and developing other unique physical characteristics.

Physical Adaptations

One of the most important physical adaptations for animals in the tundra is thick fur. This fur serves as insulation, helping to retain body heat and prevent heat loss. Some animals, such as the musk ox, have developed special adaptations in their fur that allow them to survive in extremely cold temperatures.

Another important physical adaptation is camouflage. Many animals in the tundra have white fur or feathers that help them blend in with the snowy landscape. This makes it easier for them to hide from predators or sneak up on prey.

In addition, some animals have developed special adaptations to deal with the extreme cold. For example, the arctic fox has a thick tail that it can wrap around its body like a blanket to keep warm. Some animals have developed the ability to produce antifreeze proteins in their blood, which helps prevent their bodily fluids from freezing. For example, the Alaskan wood frog can survive being frozen solid during winter, only to thaw out and resume normal activities in the spring.

Behavioral Adaptations

Animals in the tundra have also developed a variety of behavioral adaptations to help them survive. Some animals, such as the arctic hare, hibernate during the winter months to conserve energy. Others, such as the caribou, migrate to warmer areas during the winter.

To conserve body heat, some animals huddle together in groups. This is seen in animals such as penguins and emperor geese. By huddling together, these animals are able to share body heat and stay warm.

Finding Food and Water

During winter, the tundra is covered in snow and ice, which makes it difficult for animals to find food and water. However, animals have adapted to this by changing their diets and behavior. For example, the Arctic fox eats mostly small animals, such as lemmings and voles, which are abundant in the tundra. The Arctic hare, on the other hand, eats lichen, which is a type of fungus that grows on rocks and trees.

Some animals, such as the caribou, have developed the ability to dig through the snow to find food. Other animals, such as the polar bear, hunt for food in the water, where they can catch fish and other marine animals. Finally, some animals, such as the Arctic tern, migrate to warmer climates during the winter months when food is scarce.

Explore some activities to learn about how animals survive winter and cold conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the survival strategies of tundra animals during extreme cold?

Tundra animals have developed various strategies to survive in extremely cold temperatures. Many of them have thick fur or feathers that help them retain heat. Some animals, like the Arctic fox, have the ability to change the color of their fur to blend in with their surroundings. Others, like the caribou, have large hooves that allow them to walk on snow and dig for food. Some animals, such as the lemming, store food in their burrows to survive the winter months.

Which adaptations help predators in the tundra find food?

Predators in the tundra have developed a range of adaptations to help them find food. Some, like the Arctic fox, have a keen sense of smell and can detect prey beneath the snow. Others, like the polar bear, have a thick layer of blubber that allows them to withstand the cold and go for extended periods without food. Some predators, like the snowy owl, have excellent eyesight and can spot prey from great distances.

What mechanisms do tundra insects use to withstand freezing temperatures?

Tundra insects have developed various mechanisms to survive freezing temperatures. Some insects, like the Arctic woolly bear caterpillar, produce chemicals that act as a natural antifreeze, preventing ice crystals from forming in their bodies. Others, like the Arctic springtail, produce a sugar called trehalose that helps protect their cells from freezing. Some insects, like the Arctic bumblebee, hibernate during the winter months to conserve energy.

How does the tundra climate influence the breeding patterns of its native species?

The harsh tundra climate has a significant impact on the breeding patterns of native species. Many animals, like the Arctic fox, have adapted to give birth in the spring when food is more abundant. Others, like the caribou, have developed seasonal migration patterns to find food and mate. Some birds, like the snow bunting, breed in the summer months and then migrate to warmer climates for the winter. The timing of breeding is critical for the survival of many tundra species, and any changes in climate could have significant impacts on their populations.

More About the Tundra

a tundra biome scene with a mountain and a caribou

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