Animal Adaptation Showcase

Animal Adaptations

KEYS TO SURVIVAL!A Showcase of Adaptation Examples

Katydid

This insect has two false eyes that act to scare away predators.

As a predator is approaching, the katydid opens its wings to reveal the eyes. The predator may believe that that is the eyes of one of its own predators and will avoid them.

False Eyes

2013 Science Teacher Pro

Atlas MothThis moth uses a form of mimicry to protect itself from predators. In this case the wings open up to reveal a pattern that is similar to snake skin. In nature, many organisms are afraid of snakes so this pattern may make the predator turn right back around.


Deilephila Moth

This moth hides among similarly colored plants by day and does not fly until well after dark. The moth will travel to species of plants that have the red and orange color of its body.


FlatfishFlatfish can flatten their bodies and lay on the bottom of the sea floor waiting to snatch at passing prey. Some species can even rotate their other eye so that both are looking up!


Butterfly FishButterfly fish have a false eye on

both sides of its body. This feature serves two purposes.

1. To make predators think that it is a larger fish with such a large eye.

2. The false eye is located on the very back of the prey. If it is attacked it may get away if the predator attacks what it thinks is the head.

Also notice that it’s real eyes are concealed by a black stripe down its face.

False EyeEye Stripe


Iguana

Can you see him? Many of its prey can not. This lizard uses camouflage to blend into the surroundings while hunting his prey. 2013 Science Teacher Pro

Kill Deer Eggs

Kill Deer lay their eggs directly on gravel and their eggs look like gravel to as a type of camouflage. There is another important adaptation. If anything gets close to the young the mother will appear injured by dragging their wing across the ground and limping. Predators will think it’s injured and follow it but the bird stays just one limping step in front of them…the entire time they are leading the predator AWAY from their young. Once they are far enough away the faking bird will fly away.


Leaf InsectSmall insects like this one are often a favorite food for many animals. This insect protects itself by mimicking a green leaf. You can even see the fake leave veins on its body.

This insect eats other smaller insects but the disguise is strictly defensive…protecting it from predators.


What’s Your Favorite?Out of the animals we discussed today, write your favorite. Then, write what makes this animal so unique and their potential threats. You should have at least 5-7 sentences discussing your animal.

Katydid

Leaf Insect

Atlas Moth

Deilephila MothKilldeer

Iguana

Flatfish

Butterfly Fish

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Animal Adaptation Showcase