They are usually 14 years old before they are large enough to metamorphose into an adult moth, which reproduces and dies a few weeks later. Sheltered in underground burrows from October to April, hibernation is interrupted only by short periods of sleep. Take a Long Vacation Over 200 species of birds raise their young in the insect-rich environment and endless days of the arctic summer. As winter approaches, cold temperatures, limited food and long nights drive most birds south. Red-throated Loons winter along the coasts of North America, Arctic Terns in South America and Antarctica, and Wheatears in Africa and Asia.
Many plants die back in winter, keeping only their roots alive 'til spring.
Early bloomers, like the wooly lousewort, also form underground buds in fall. When spring arrives, the buds push up through the snow to bloom. Notice the fine hairs around the leaves and flowers. They trap warm air and protect the plant from cool springtime temperatures. More on Adaptations .