To survive the winter season, many animals hibernate. However, the process varies depending on the species.
When winter comesseveral options are possible for animals. Some bird species leave the area where they nested during the summer to a warmer destination. Others, built to withstand the harshest conditions, continue to live normally. But for many others, mid-November marks the start of the hibernation or overwintering period. Although animals such as bears and marmots are known to hide and sleep for several months, the functioning of this state is often unknown. However, it implies conditions of survival which might seem difficult to bear, such as a drop in body temperature.
How does animal hibernation happen?
The objective of hibernation, but also of overwintering, is to reduce activity at least in order to withstand the cold. For this, animals sleep for several weeks, even several months while waiting for the return of the beautiful season. In addition to sleep, this state is characterized by a drop in body temperature below 10°, a reduction in blood circulation and heart activity. To protect themselves from difficult weather conditions and predators, hibernators hide in a shelter (cave, pile of leaves, burrow, etc.).
Hibernation: Do animals drink or eat when they hibernate?
In the majority of cases, animals do not eat or drink during the hibernation/winter phase. In anticipation During this long period of winter sleep, they eat in large quantities before returning to their seasonal shelter. They live on their fat reservesand vital functions are slowed down so much that waking up can take several days. However, some hibernators may emerge from this state for a few hours to stretch, relieve themselves and possibly eat. But they can feed without having to leave their shelter. Then they gradually return to resting conditions until the return of fine weather. Nevertheless, it is important to differentiate between hibernating animals like frogs and overwintering ones like bears, because the impact of the period on the brain or body temperature is very different.
Wintering (or overwintering) or hibernation: what are the differences between the two?
Contrary to popular belief, bears do not go into hibernation, but winter. In these species, the metabolism is slowed down, but the animal remains conscious and vigilant. In case of danger, he can wake up in a few moments and react. Winter visitors include warm-blooded animals like beavers, and to adapt to this period, they may undergo physical changes. In contrast, hibernating animals, like alligators, enter an almost lethargic state to survive the winter. Body temperature drops drastically, as does heart rate and oxygen consumption. Hibernating animals include the dormouse, the hedgehog, the marmot, certain bats and frogs trapped in the ice.
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