Weather, Climate and Adaptations of Animals to Climate

Class: 7   |   Subject: Science

This chapter explains the difference between weather and climate and how animals adapt themselves to survive in different climatic conditions.

1. What is Weather?

Weather is the condition of the atmosphere at a particular place and time. It can change from hour to hour or day to day.

• Sunny
• Rainy
• Windy
• Cold or hot

Weather includes temperature, humidity, rainfall, wind speed and cloud cover.

2. What is Climate?

Climate is the average weather pattern of a place over a long period (about 25 years or more).

Example: Rajasthan has a hot and dry climate, while Kerala has a hot and wet climate.

3. Difference Between Weather and Climate

Weather	Climate
Changes daily	Changes over many years
Short-term	Long-term
Example: Rain today	Example: Desert climate

4. What is Adaptation?

Adaptation means special features or habits that help animals survive in their environment.

5. Adaptations in Polar Regions

Polar regions are extremely cold and covered with snow.

• Thick fur for warmth
• Layer of fat (blubber)
• White color for camouflage

Example: Polar bear, seal

6. Adaptations in Tropical Rainforests

Tropical rainforests are hot, wet, and dense with tall trees.

• Long limbs for climbing
• Camouflage skin
• Prehensile tails

Example: Monkey, sloth, toucan

7. Adaptations in Desert Regions

Deserts are hot and dry with little rainfall.

• Light-colored skin to reflect heat
• Long legs to avoid ground heat
• Water conservation ability

Example: Camel, desert fox

8. Why Adaptation is Important

Adaptation helps animals:

• Protect themselves from enemies
• Find food easily
• Survive extreme temperatures

9. Summary

Weather tells us the day-to-day condition of the atmosphere, while climate tells us the general weather of a place over many years. Animals have special adaptations that help them survive in different climates such as polar regions, deserts, and rainforests.