Alpine Biome

The alpine biome is found on high mountains above the tree line. It is too cold and windy for trees to grow there. Plants are small and grow close to the ground. Animals in this biome must be very tough to survive the harsh conditions.

Life Above the Trees

Above the tree line, only small, tough plants can survive. Alpine wildflowers bloom quickly during the short summer. Mosses and lichens cling to rocks. The soil is thin and often frozen. Plants grow close to the ground to avoid strong winds.

Alpine Animals

Mountain goats climb steep rocky cliffs with ease. Pikas collect grass and dry it for winter food. Snow leopards hunt in the high mountains of Asia. Marmots hibernate in burrows to survive the long winter. Many alpine animals have thick fur to keep warm.

Fun Facts

• Mountain goats can climb nearly vertical cliffs thanks to their special hooves.
• Pikas do not hibernate but instead store dried grass in haystacks for winter food.
• The alpine biome can be found on every continent, from the Andes to the Himalayas.

Did You Know?

The air in the alpine biome has less oxygen because it is so high up. Animals that live there have extra red blood cells to help them breathe.