Fun Facts
How are deserts and savannas different?
Deserts are dry year-round, while savannas have a wet season that brings life to the ecosystem.
What is the “Tree of Life” in the savanna?
The baobab tree.
What is deforestation, and how does it affect the savanna?
How do savanna animals adapt their diet during the dry season?
By eating lower-quality forage or browsing on less-desirable plants.
What is the main climate characteristic of the savanna?
Warm, with a pronounced wet and dry season.
What is the wet season's impact on the savanna landscape?
Grasslands become lush and green, and plant growth supports animal populations.
Name one iconic grass found in the savanna.
Red oat grass.
What is overgrazing, and what consequences does it cause?
Overgrazing by livestock leads to soil degradation and desertification.
Name a behavioral adaptation animals use to survive the savanna’s conditions
Migration to find water and fresh grazing areas during the dry season.
How much rainfall does the savanna typically receive?
10–25 inches of rainfall annually.
Name two animals that migrate during the dry season.
Wildebeests and zebras.
Which bird uses its speed and sharp eyesight to survive the savanna?
The ostrich.
Why is poaching a significant issue in the savanna?
: Poaching targets animals like elephants for ivory, disrupting populations and ecosystems.
What is a physical adaptation seen in giraffes?
Giraffes have long necks to reach leaves in tall trees
Name two seasons found in the savanna.
Wet season and dry season.
Why are zebras’ stripes considered helpful in the savanna?
Their stripes confuse predators by distorting their appearance in shimmering heat.
How do elephants help shape the savanna environment?
Elephants knock down trees to create open grasslands and dig for water during the dry season.
How does urban development threaten the savanna ecosystem?
It fragments habitats, making it harder for animals to migrate and find resources.
Describe one way social behavior helps animals survive in the savanna.
Herding behavior protects animals from predators and improves foraging efficiency.
How do temperature variations occur between day and night?
Days can exceed 95°F (35°C), while nights can drop to 50°F (10°C).
What role do scavengers like hyenas and vultures play in the ecosystem?
They clean up carcasses, preventing the spread of disease.
What is unique about the baobab tree's adaptation to dry seasons?
Baobab trees store water in their trunks for survival during dry seasons.
Suggest one way humans can help protect the savanna biome.
Sustainable farming practices, reducing deforestation, and enforcing anti-poaching laws.
How does camouflage benefit predators and prey in the savanna?
Camouflage helps predators stalk prey and allows prey to avoid detection.
What are microclimates, and how do they affect the savanna?
Microclimates are small areas with unique conditions, influenced by factors like elevation and water sources.