(Harlan) The frigid cold temperature keeps everyone inside these days. Pets can be dressed in special garments to keep them warm during a walk, and a brief let out. However, wildlife such as birds and smaller animals don’t have the luxury of that type of care. So how does nature survive in these frigid temperatures?
Christina Roelofs, Naturalist for the Shelby County Conservation Board and Iowa DNR, says birds fluff up to protect themselves from the frigid temperatures.
Roelofs says some animals aestivate—which is a short-term hibernation. The animals find suitable shelter, their body temperature lowers, and sleep for several days.
Roelofs has a fun activity planned for this evening at the Prairie Rose State Park. Participants will learn about wildlife and winter survival and then use some Jell-O to experiment to see if they would survive the winter.
The program starts at 6:30 p.m. at the Prairie Rose State Park Office.
