Episode 4 — Insulation & Energy Saving

Insulation in Animals

Learners will be able to:

• Identify blubber and fur or feathers as adaptations that insulate animals living in cold environments. • Describe the structure and function of blubber as a thick layer of fat that reduces heat transfer from an animal's body to its cold surroundings. • Describe how layered fur (dense under-fur and oily outer guard hairs) and feathers (down and top feathers) trap air and repel water to insulate animals. • Explain why polar bears lose almost no heat to their environment, referring to their coat's effect on radiated body heat. • Relate animal insulation adaptations to how humans use layered, water-repellent clothing to stay warm in cold climates.