
Water Management
Water Management
When you are asked which molecule is necessary for life, water in liquid form may be the first thing that comes to mind. Learn how animals acquire and use water.
Learning Outcome: Discuss the animal need for water as well as the structures and behaviors related to water management.

We all know water is critical for life. This section explains why that’s the case.
Basics on the properties of water and water balance in animals.
Watch this video; you can select the closed captioning “cc” option if you would like to see the text.
In this guide’s media assignment, you are developing a feeding plan for an animal. Water is a key component to add to your plan.
If developing a larger-scale plan like a wildlife garden, a continual water source is an important element.
Zoo animals often have reduced energy expenditure, but may live in high regional temperatures with minimal cover.
Consider habitat features, weather, and activity levels when developing a watering strategy for animals.
A common misconception is that camels store water in their hump (or humps). Camels do not store water and the hump is largely fatty tissue. A hypothesis is that fat on the back reduces fat on the rest of the body which can insulate and raise body temperature, a disadvantage in hot climates.
The next section links nutrients and energy to different functional groups.
