Ever wonder how different species of wildlife stay warm through the bitter cold snaps of Northern winters? Many species have adapted to the climates in which they live by developing special physical features that help shield the cold from their bodies. Different animals also develop behavioral habits that protect them from the dangers of cold weather as well.
Small birds like tree swallows huddle together in tight bunches under the cover of trees and shrubs whenever possible to share body heat. They can also slow down their metabolic rate to conserve energy.
Animals use fat, fur, or feathers to insulate their bodies against the cold. Some birds have specialized feathers that trap warm air near the body, which acts like a buffer against the colder air outside the feathers.
Have you ever seen a bird standing on one leg in the breeze, the other leg nowhere to be seen? Some waterfowl will tuck one leg up under their bodies to preserve body heat, and alternate legs to keep at least one warm at all times.
