HIBERNATION

HOW ANIMALS SLEEP AWAY THROUGH WINTER

- POOJA K

Humans, would we ever think of giving up eating, drinking, or even staying awake for months on end to survive a harsh cold winter? We may not even adopt this lifestyle, but some species in the animal kingdom have perfected the art and science of slumber, called 'hibernation'. To define it in simple terms, hibernation is a state of minimal activity and metabolic depression. It is a seasonal heterothermy characterized by low body temperature, slow breathing and heart rate, and low metabolic rate. Some species adapt to this state during extreme winters.

Hibernation is considered an evolutionary adaptation that allows species like bears, bats, hedgehogs, and even some amphibians and reptiles, to survive the inhospitably cold climate without active foraging. It is a fascinating survival strategy that allows animals to survive harsh climatic conditions, or when food is scarce. Hibernation is a state of psychological and physical adaptation that helps the animals conserve energy and survive for long periods without food. It is an elongated process that has various stages.

STEPS IN HIBERNATION

• Preparation: Before hibernation begins, animals go through many physical and psychological changes.

• Storing fat: Animals consume large amounts of food for weeks, and sometimes even months, to store fat to survive the harsh winter. Besides, the fat also provides them with energy to sustain themselves during dormancy.

• Building shelters: Before hibernating, animals seek or create a safe space such as dens, burrows or caves that will keep them warm during the freezing temperature.

• Entering a state of torpor: Hibernation involves a state called 'torpor'.