Storyclover
Storyclover
At dawn in late autumn, Fern stacked dry leaves beside her pond. She wanted a snug place to wait out winter.
Why Do Some Frogs Freeze Without Dying?Some frogs survive cold by slowing their bodies and protecting their cells until warmth returns and they become active again.
1. At dawn in late autumn, Fern stacked dry leaves beside her pond. She wanted a snug place to wait out winter.
2. By afternoon, a silver skin of ice covered the pond. Fern tucked herself beneath the leaves, but the cold kept reaching her toes.
3. The air grew colder. Fern's heartbeat slowed, her breathing grew quiet, and her body used less energy. She was preparing for a very deep rest.
4. Soon, ice formed in the water between some of Fern's cells. Her body sent extra sugar through her cells, helping protect them from the cold.
5. Under the leaves, Fern's heart stopped, and she did not breathe. Her body was frozen in places, but her cells were protected, so this quiet pause was safe.
6. Weeks passed above the snow. Then sunlight softened the ground, and a bright drop of meltwater rested on Fern's scarf.
7. At last, warmth reached Fern's body. Her heart began to beat, her eyes opened, and her toes loosened from the cold.
8. Fern sat beside the thawing pond, wobbly but ready for spring. Some frogs survive cold by slowing their bodies and protecting their cells until warmth returns and they become active again.
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