Animal Habitats

Ocean, forest, desert, arctic — every animal has a home that fits.

What is a habitat?

A habitat is the natural home of an animal, a place that gives it everything it needs to survive: food, water, shelter, and space to live. Different animals need very different habitats.

Ocean, forest, desert, arctic

Fish live in the ocean, where they can swim and breathe through gills. Deer live in forests, surrounded by trees and plants to eat. Camels live in the desert, where it's hot and dry. Polar bears live in the arctic, where it's icy and cold.

Animals are adapted to their home

Animals have special features that help them survive in their habitat, called adaptations. A polar bear's thick fur keeps it warm in the freezing arctic. A camel's hump stores fat for long trips across the hot desert. A fish's gills let it breathe underwater. Each adaptation is a perfect fit for that animal's home.

Quick quiz: Animal Habitats

Question 1 of 5

What is a habitat?