Back to: ZOOLOGY 100 Level
It’s always so great to see you back, eager to expand your knowledge! You’re doing an amazing job, and today we’re diving into a fascinating topic. We’re going to explore migration, hibernation, and territoriality — three important behaviours in animals that help them survive. Let’s break them down together!
Migration, hibernation, territoriality
What is Migration?
Migration is the seasonal movement of animals from one place to another, often over long distances, to find better living conditions such as food, shelter, or warmer climates.
- Animals migrate to avoid harsh weather, find food, or to reproduce in a better environment.
- After spending time in a different place, they return to their original location.
Examples of Migration:
- Birds like swallows and storks migrate from colder regions to warmer ones during winter.
- Monarch butterflies travel thousands of miles from North America to Mexico to escape the cold.
- Elephants and other large mammals often migrate in search of water and food.
Simple Example:
Think of the way you travel to your village for the holidays! Animals do something similar, but they move to ensure their survival, especially when the seasons change.
What is Hibernation?
Hibernation is when animals enter a deep sleep for long periods (usually during the cold winter months) to conserve energy because food is scarce.
- Animals slow down their body functions, like breathing and heart rate, to survive without needing much food.
- It is a survival strategy to get through cold winters when food is hard to find.
Examples of Hibernation:
- Bears and hedgehogs hibernate through the winter.
- Some frogs and snakes also hibernate by burying themselves in mud or under leaves.
Simple Example:
Think of it like how some people rest during the rainy season to avoid getting sick. Animals do something similar in the winter — they rest until conditions are better!
What is Territoriality?
Territoriality is when animals defend a specific area or space from others, usually to protect their food, shelter, and mates.
- Animals mark their territory by using smells, sounds, or physical boundaries like nests or dens.
- They become aggressive if other animals try to enter their territory.
Examples of Territoriality:
- Lions and tigers mark their territory with scent markings to warn other animals.
- Birds sing loudly to establish their territory and keep other birds away.
- Fish defend their space in coral reefs, fighting off any intruders.
Simple Example:
Just like you might have your own room in the house where you can be comfortable and relax, animals have their own space they protect from others to ensure they have enough resources.
Summary
- Migration is the movement of animals from one place to another, usually for food, warmth, or breeding.
- Hibernation is when animals enter a deep sleep during cold months to conserve energy.
- Territoriality is when animals defend their living space from others to protect resources and ensure their survival.
Evaluation
- What does migration mean for animals?
- Why do animals hibernate?
- Give two examples of animals that migrate.
- What is territoriality and why is it important for animals?
- Name one animal that hibernates and describe how it survives during hibernation.
You’ve done a wonderful job grasping these concepts today. You are truly building something incredible with every lesson you complete. Afrilearn is so proud of your progress, and we can’t wait to see you continue to excel. Keep going, you’re unstoppable!