How do ants get through the winter underground?

What Crafty Clover says in this video

Intro

Hi there, curious minds! I'm Crafty Clover! Let's discover something amazing. How do ants get through the winter underground?

The Big Idea

When winter comes, where do ants go? They head deep underground. And they slow way, way down!

Moving Down

Step one: Moving Down. When it gets cold, ants move deeper in their nests. They go below the frost line, where the soil stays warmer.

Slowing Down

Step two: Slowing Down. They slow down and gather in clusters. Their bodies work very slowly, so they need little energy.

Waking Up

Step three: Waking Up. During winter, they eat food stored earlier or live off body fat. When spring warms the soil, the ants wake up and head back to the surface.

A Closer Look

Let's take a closer look! In fall, ants store food. They move deep below the frost. They slow down to save energy. In spring, they come back up.

Quick Facts

Quick facts! Some ant queens can live for more than 20 years. Some ants store food in their nests for winter. Warm soil tells the ants it is time to wake up. Huddling together helps them get through the cold.

Think Like a Scientist

Now, think like a scientist! In spring, look for ant hills near your home. Watch from a little distance. Note the date when the ants first appear. Write down what the weather is like. Was the ground warm or cool?

Outro

Ants survive winter by moving deep in their nests, below the frost line, where they huddle, slow down, and live on stored food or fat until spring. Science is amazing! Remember, every big discovery starts with a small question. Keep looking, keep learning, and keep asking why! Crafty Clover can be found on Amazon Books, Google Bookstore, and Apple Books. Available for purchase or download! Bye for now!