Identify two changes in the environment that cause some animals to hibernate during the winter.
The tempature begins to drop
Climate drop and food decrease.
Two changes in the environment that cause some animals to hibernate during the winter are:
1. Decreased Temperature: As winter approaches, the temperature drops significantly, creating a colder environment for animals. This decrease in temperature prompts animals to conserve energy and protect themselves from the cold by entering into hibernation.
2. Reduced Availability of Food: During winter, food becomes scarce due to factors such as reduced plant growth and limited availability of prey. This scarcity of food resources forces some animals to hibernate as a survival strategy. By reducing their metabolic rate and entering a state of dormancy, animals can conserve energy and survive on their stored fat reserves until food becomes more abundant in the spring.
To identify two changes in the environment that cause some animals to hibernate during the winter, we need to understand the natural behavior and physiological adaptations of these animals to survive the colder months. Here's how you can find the answer:
1. Research the concept of hibernation: Start by understanding what hibernation is and how it helps animals survive winter. Look for reliable sources such as scientific articles, educational websites, or books that explain the purpose and mechanism of hibernation.
2. Study the characteristics of hibernating animals: Make a list of animals known to hibernate, such as bears, bats, hedgehogs, and ground squirrels. Learn about their hibernation patterns, including their metabolic rate, body temperature, and activity levels during this period.
3. Identify environmental changes during winter: Winter brings several environmental changes that trigger hibernation in animals. Focus on two main factors:
a. Cold temperatures: As winter approaches, the temperature drops significantly. Many animals enter hibernation as a response to this environmental change. Research how these animals adapt to survive in chilly conditions.
b. Limited food availability: Winter months often mean a scarcity of food in many ecosystems. This scarcity is a crucial factor that drives animals into hibernation. Explore how hibernating animals alter their feeding patterns and energy storage to cope with the lack of food.
4. Connect the dots: Analyze the information you have gathered and identify two specific environmental changes leading animals to hibernate. Consider how these changes affect the animals' physiological processes and trigger their hibernation response.
Remember, the key to answering these questions is to have a strong understanding of the animals' behavior and the environmental conditions they experience during winter.