How Musk Oxen Survive in the Arctic
In How Musk Oxen Survive in the Arctic, narrator Sir David Attenborough showcases musk oxen in the Arctic and their adaptations for survival in harsh conditions. The musk oxen can break through the frozen ground to access vegetation, creating opportunities for other animals like Arctic foxes and various birds. Calves are birthed early, allowing them to acclimate to their environment before summer arrives. This video is excerpted from BBC’s Planet Earth, a breathtaking documentary series that highlights the natural wonders of our planet.
Sir David Attenborough takes you inside the most remote, extreme, and jaw-dropping corners of the planet — filmed over four years across 64 countries. Learn more.
Lesson Express
Q: What adaptations do musk oxen have that help them survive in the Arctic?
A: Musk oxen have thick fur to insulate against the cold, strong legs to break through ice, and a stocky body that conserves heat.
Q: How do musk oxen benefit other animals in the Arctic ecosystem?
A: By breaking through the ice to access vegetation, musk oxen expose food sources that can be used by other animals like Arctic foxes and birds.
Q: Why is it important for musk oxen calves to be born early in the spring?
A: Early births give the calves time to adapt to the environment and grow strong before the summer, when more food is available.
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