One thing you will notice when you visit the alpine tundra is how windy it almost always is!
Unlike lower ecosystems, there are no trees to block the wind, and as moving air squeezes up and over mountain ranges it can really howl!
As you probably know, wind robs your body of heat. (Ever heard of the wind-chill factor?) Plus, windy air dries things out quickly!
So, the windy conditions of the alpine tundra add to the cold and dry conditions that plants and animals must deal with.
Look for ways that plants and animals have adapted to windy conditions above treeline on the alpine tundra.
