Hermit crabs are survivors.

Hermit crabs must protect themselves from other sea creatures, so they make their homes inside empty sea shells. They carry their shell home wherever they go. When a hermit crab outgrows its home, it moves into a larger home. The hermit crab shell house is an example of an adaptation.

Adaptations help animals survive. Many animals have special body parts. These are physical adaptations. For example, birds with sharp curved beaks eat meat. Birds with small flat beaks eat seeds and fruit. Camels have humps for a reason. Their humps help them survive in the desert with little water. Blow fish can puff up their bodies when they feel danger. This makes them look big and scary!

Some animals use learned behaviors to help them survive. Animals like penguins, elephants and fish may live in groups. These groups may be families, herds or schools. In groups, these animals can more easily survive.

Adaptations are amazing. Now that you know about adaptations - it's your turn - try to name other animals that use adaptations.

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