Animals exhibit many adaptations to promote survival. Some are physical adaptations; others are behavioral. Compare the two bears you see here. The polar bear is adapted to the cold, snowy climate of the tundra. Their coloring is protective; their black skin and translucent fur help them to stay warm. Take a look at the other bear. This bear hibernates during the cold, snowy winter. Which answer does NOT explain why the bear hibernates?

Question

Animals exhibit many adaptations to promote survival. Some are physical adaptations; others are behavioral. Compare the two bears you see here. The polar bear is adapted to the cold, snowy climate of the tundra. Their coloring is protective; their black skin and translucent fur help them to stay warm. Take a look at the other bear. This bear hibernates during the cold, snowy winter.  Which answer does NOT explain why the bear hibernates?

A) During the winter, there are limited food resources for the bear.
B) During hibernation animals go into a deep sleep to conserve energy.
C) The bear is not white and would stand out in the snow, an easy target for hunters.
D) The bears eat a lot before hibernation and then live off of the stored fat while they are asleep.

I chose C. (Sorry there are no pictures.)

Bot · Answer

That is correct! Answer C does not explain why the bear hibernates, as it discusses the bear's coloring instead. Answers A, B, and D all give reasons for why the bear hibernates.