Polar Bears Past Bedtime

Adaptations Hibernation Tundra Global Warming

Artic Circle Permafrost AuroraBorealis

Frigid

Kayak Igloos Predators Mushers

Carnivorous Endangered Shamans Parka

Magic Tree House Vocabulary

Adaptations

The process or state of changing to fit a new environment or different conditions, or the resulting change.

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Hibernation

To be in a dormant state resembling sleep over the winter while living off reserves of body fat, with a decrease in body temperature and pulse rate and slower metabolism. Animals that hibernate include bears, bats, and many amphibians.

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Tundra

The level or nearly level treeless plain between the ice cap and the timber line of North America, Europe, and Asia that has permanently frozen subsoil.

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Global Warming

An increase in the world's temperatures, believed to be caused in part by the greenhouse effect.

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Artic Circle

Parallel of latitude on the surface of the Earth at 66°30’ N. It marks the southern limit of the area in which the Sun does not rise on the winter solstice (usually December 21 or 22) or set on the summer solstice (usually June 21 or 22).

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Permafrost

Underlying soil or rock that remains permanently frozen, found mainly in the polar regions.

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Aurora Borealis

The colored lights seen in the skies around the North Pole.

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Frigid

Having a very cold temperature.

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Kayak

A lightweight plastic or fiberglass covered canoe propelled by a double-bladed paddle, used for leisure and in competitive sport.

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Igloos

An Inuit dwelling, usually dome-shaped and built from blocks of packed snow.

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Predators

A carnivorous animal that hunts, kills, and eats other animals in order to survive, or any other organism that behaves in a similar manner.

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Mushers

To travel on a dogsled, or drive a dogsled or team of dogs.

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Carnivorous

Feeding mainly on the flesh of other animals.

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Endangered

To expose somebody or something to danger.

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Shamans

A spiritual leader who is believed to have special powers such as prophecy and the ability to heal.

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Parka

A thick, fur-lined, hooded outer garment for arctic conditions, pulled on over the head. Traditionally, parkas are made of animal hide and worn by the Inuit and Aleut people.

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