Adaptations-Necessary for Survival!

Over the course of the past week our focus in A Snapshot of the 21st Century has been adaptations. This week we were required to explore nature to find evidence of adaptations. The adaptations categories included: size, coloration-warning, coloration-hidden or blended, shape and showy display. Due to the late arrival of spring this year, our instructors are not requiring and example from each category.

"I have called this principle, by which each slight variation, if useful, is preserved, by Natural Selection." Charles Darwin.

The focus at Runge Nature Center last Saturday was Salamanders. This spotted salamander is a great example of an organisms that successfully uses its shape to its advantage. Nature lovers had a great time at Runge, learning about these creatures through activities and live displays.

Another adaptation that is evident in nature is size. The size of these thorns on the Honey Locust tree are a natural deterrent to deer and any creature that might consider climbing this tree.



Coloration is often found in nature as a warning of danger. The pretty yellow horsenettle pods to the left are a signal of danger. In addition, to being a bothersome, prickly weed in the summer garden, the seed pods are poisoness. Make sure that young children
steer clear of the attractive yellow pods. The numerous prickly thorns
are another deterrent.


As my daughter and I explored the grounds of Runge Nature Center last Monday night, we struggled to find an organism that adapts to the environment by blending in. Fortunately, around the edge of one of the ponds we discovered a number of these frogs that clearly blend into the muddy shore. My daughter believes they may be Northern Cricket Frogs. You will have to examine the photo below closely to find this hidden amphibian.