SC.5.L.17.1 Form B

Hurricane Andrew caused many animals in the Miami Zoo to become displaced. Two animals that lost their homes were the collared lemming with thick white fur and sharp claws, and the other was a marsh rabbit with thin brown fur and is a strong swimmer.

If both were thought to have sought refuge in a Florida forest, which answer best describes the animal that would have a better chance of survival?

• the marsh rabbit, because its ability to swim helps it to scare away predators

• the marsh rabbit, because its thin, brown fur helps it blend into its environment

• the collared lemming, because its sharp claws help it burrow into the ground to hide

• the collared lemming, because its thick, white fur helps it stay warm during the winter

The American Black Bear lives in many parts of North America. A black bear in Colorado might hibernate for three or more months in winter, while a black bear in Florida may hibernate for only a few weeks, or not at all. Which statement best explains why?

• A. Florida black bears hibernate less because their climate is not as cold.

• B. Florida black bears have less territory and cannot risk a long hibernation.

• C. Florida black bears are a different species from Colorado black bears.

• D. Florida black bears eat different food from bears in Colorado and need less rest.

The Brazilian Pepper plant was brought to Florida for decorating the yards of homes, but it has spread to Florida's wilderness. It is a large plant that grows quickly and has no natural predators. Based on these facts, why is the Brazilian Pepper a problem for Florida's native plants?

• The Brazilian Pepper takes up the space that native plants need in order to grow.

• People prefer the appearance of the Brazilian Pepper so fewer native plants are grown.

• The Brazilian Pepper can pollinate with other plants and damage their ability to reproduce.

• Animals eat the Brazilian Pepper instead of native plants and spread its seeds instead.

Animals which share the same space must compete for resources. Which answer is the best example of this?

• The cattle egret will stay close to grazing animals. When grazing animals move, they stir up insects, which the egret then eats.

• Some species of orchid look like a female bee. This attracts male bees that leave pollen behind so that the orchid can reproduce.

• Rhesus monkeys were released into the wild along Florida's Silver River. The monkeys have adapted to the environment and have lived there for over eighty years.

• Humans cut down forests and built roads in the Florida Everglades. The Florida panthers living there had less territory and their population declined.

5. Living things can inherit behavior, learn it from other creatures, or change their behavior because of their environment. Which example describes learned behavior in a living thing?

• A. Sunflowers are able to turn to face the sun to help them grow.

• B. A sea turtle that hatches on a beach will crawl toward the ocean.

• C. Most humans begin to speak when they are one or two years old.

• D. Fireflies can produce light from their abdomens to attract mates.