A tundra is a type of environment characterized by its cold climate, short growing seasons, and permafrost—a permanently frozen layer beneath the surface. Typically found in polar regions and high mountain tops, tundras have limited vegetation, mainly consisting of low shrubs, mosses, lichens, and grasses. The harsh conditions result in little precipitation, often resembling a desert ecosystem. Despite its extreme climate, the tundra supports diverse wildlife adapted to survive in such environments, including migratory birds, caribou, and small mammals. Climate change poses significant threats to tundra ecosystems, impacting their fragile balance and the species that inhabit them.