Learn more about the interesting Subnivean Zone animals and predators with these facts and new member worksheet.
The Subnivean Zone is found in and under the snow pack. It’s the space that many creatures inhabit during the winter where the snow actually acts as an insulator from cold winter temperatures. Smaller mammals like mice, voles, pikas, and shrews live in the subnivean zone to escape the cold, wind, and predators.
The smaller mammals create a unique tunnel system to travel around, hunt, and gather food. However, predators like weasels, foxes, coyotes, owls, and wolves, use their amazing senses of smell, hearing, and sight to find these prey below the snow.
Does your state have a Subnivean Zone?
The Subnivean Zone is found in colder regions of the Northern Hemisphere, including states along the Rocky Mountains, Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming.
Barb shared what she noticed about the subnivean zone creatures in her backyard!
Subnivean Zone Nature Study Fun Facts
- The Subnivean Zone temperature remains steady around 32 degrees Fahrenheit – even when the surface temperature drops much colder!
- “Sub” means beneath, and “niv” translates from Latin as snow.
- Sublimation happens under the snow when heat from the ground changes the snow from frozen water directly into water vapor. As the vapor cools, it condenses and forms a layer of ice on the snow.
Member’s Printable Worksheet
Homeschool Nature Study Members will find the new Subnivean Zone Worksheet in their database. Find it in your Winter course. There are so many wonderful winter nature studies for you to enjoy!
Don’t miss this great winter post: How to Create a Winter Garden with Shelter for Wildlife.
Learn More About Outdoor Hour Challenges with The Handbook of Nature Study
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Homeschool Nature Study Membership
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Post originally written by Barb January 2018, updated with worksheet by Stef Layton, January 2025.