How observant are you? Here’s a Fun Zoo challenge:

Take a look at a bird called the red-breasted merganser and a mammal called the American river otter. Both are very effective predators when it comes to catching fish.

As fish-catching predators, which physical adaptations appear on both of these animals?

Answers

• A natural suit that provides insulation and waterproofing in cold water. The merganser has fluffy, feathers close to its skin and outer feathers that provide waterproofing. The otter has soft under-fur and waterproof outer “guard” hairs.

• Oil glands that help waterproof their outer feathers or fur.

• Tooth-like structures for catching slippery fishes: the merganser has a serrated beak; the otter has sharp, pointed teeth.

• Webbed feet that work like swim fins to propel themselves through the water.

• Streamlined bodies that let them easily slip through the water.

• Clear, specialized eyelids (nictitating membranes) that let them see well underwater.