What Makes a Habitat a Habitat?

What Makes a Habitat a Habitat?

-Lili

    What is a habitat? A habitat is a place where a living being makes it's home. All living beings, including both animals and humans need four things: food, water, shelter, and space. Any place has to have all four of these things to be a habitat. Today we are going to look at those four things that make a place a habitat.

1.FOOD

All living beings need food to survive. For instance, think about Cottontail Rabbits. Rabbits eat grass and wildflowers, including dandelions. Would a Cottontail rabbit be able to survive in Antarctica or the Pacific ocean? Nope. Neither place has the right food for a rabbit to survive, and therefore would be an ideal habitat. Humans need food to survive too. What is your favorite food?

2.WATER

Just like all living things need food to survive, they also need water. Many animals who live in areas with out actual bodies of water have special characteristics the help them get the water they need. Some animals absorb their moister our of the plants they eat. Others drink dew or collected rainwater. A few animals are able to survive without water for a very long time, such as camels. Humans need to drink water everyday. Do you use a reusable bottle or a single-use one?

3. SHELTER

Shelter is another thing that is essential to their - and our - survival. Different animals have different types of shelters. Lizards live under rocks. Moles live in burrows underground. Bears live in dens. Other animals, like birds, don't live in one specific place the entire time unless they have babies. Shelters keep them safe from the elements: rain, snow, wind, hot, cold, and so on. Humans also live in shelters. What kind of house do you live in?

4. SPACE

The final thing that makes a habitat a habitat is space. all animals, as well as humans, need space. Many animals, such as eagles and lions, are very territorial. Animals also need space so their is enough to eat. Do you sometimes want to be alone? 

Today, look at the wildlife around you. What is that bird eating? Where do you think that squirrel lives? How does that rabbit get water? Ask lots of questions, make observations, and have fun! And, of course, remember to post your comments, questions, and observations in the comments below!