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Except for the global elevational decline of air temperature and atmospheric pressure, there are no globally common trends in climate with respect to altitude. Patterns of radiation, precipitation, snow duration, and wind differ from region to region, even within certain latitudes.
The alpine ecosystems are not necessarily "cold" for those living there. Topography and plant life form have an overwhelming influence on actual life conditions, particularly under bright sun shine. Moisture shortage is rarely a problem at high elevation. If so, effects operate via top soil nutrient availability rather than moisture stress.
In those regions which experience snow cover ("winter"), snow has largely a protective function, hence its spatial distribution shapes habitat types and vegetation patterns.
Don't be fooled by visual impressions and human perception of what may be limiting or stressing. Remember: only those which are not fit are stressed. Those selected for life in the alpine environment are commonly fit.
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