2. Adaptation  A change in a species that helps it to survive and reproduce in its environment (habitat)

3.  Habitat - The immediate space where an animal or plant lives and has food, water and protection

4. Structural Adaptations  changes in physical features like body form and protective coloration that make an animal more suited to survive in its environment

5. Examples:  Webbed feet & fins for swimming  sharp beak & teeth for tearing flesh  frog & alligator eyes on the top of head for stalking prey in water

6.  Camouflage - An adaptation in coloration or pattern that allows an organism to blend into its environment

7. Behavioral Adaptations  changes in behavior that helps organisms to survive  Ex: Hibernation, Migration, Mating behaviors, Hunting behaviors

8. Evolution  A change in a species over long periods of time  Adaptations are the result of evolution

9. How Adaptations Occur  A gene mutates or changes by accident  If the mutation causes a change in the animal that makes it better adapted to its environment, then the animal will be more likely to survive and pass on that characteristic