Only some plants and animals like white bark and snow leopard have the ability to survive in this enviroment
Generally categorized as Arctic or alpine, tundra refers to a treeless biome that ranks among the coldest on Earth. Though covered in snow most of the year, the tundra experiences a short summer growing season during which animal and plant activity peaks. Virtually no reptiles or amphibians can live in tundra's harsh conditions, but other tundra plants and animals have developed adaptations that allow them to survive in such a frigid environment.
Mammals of the Tundra
the arctic fox is an arctic tundra carnivore dominikmichalek/iStock/Getty Images
A number of mammals can survive in tundra habitats thanks to special adaptations and the insulation fur and fat provide. A prominent example is the herbivorous musk ox. One of the largest Arctic tundra mammals, the musk ox has a dense coat which, combined with its large size and short legs and tail, reduces the loss of body heat. Other arctic tundra herbivores include arctic hares, squirrels, voles, lemmings and caribou, which have hooves that support them in snow. Arctic tundra carnivores include arctic foxes and polar bears. In alpine tundra, marmots, mountain goats, pikas, sheep and elk occur.
Birds Inhabit the Tundra
Ptarmigans are brown in summer. dominikmichalek/iStock/Getty Images
Many birds that occur in Arctic tundra are migratory, which means they only travel to such regions during the warmer summer period. These include ravens, snow buntings, falcons, terns and several gull species. Others birds, however, such as ptarmigan and the lemming-eating snowy owl, are year-round tundra residents. Ptarmigan are brown in summer, but white in the winter. Male snowy owls are completely white, which makes it difficult for predators to spot them against snow.