Hibernation is defined as which of the following?

• A. A state of inactivity and metabolic depression with lower body temperature.
• B. A period of rapid activity and increased metabolism.
• C. A temporary absence of appetite with normal temperature.
• D. A seasonal drop in heart rate with no change in temperature.

Answer: (A)

Hibernation is a prolonged state of dormancy in which an animal’s metabolic rate drops dramatically and body temperature falls toward ambient. This energy-conserving strategy lets wildlife survive winter when food is scarce. In rehab settings, hibernating animals typically show little to no movement, very slow breathing, and a noticeably lowered body temperature. It’s important not to disturb or wake them unnecessarily, as arousal can be stressful and counterproductive. The other descriptions don’t fit because they either imply increased metabolism, normal temperature with appetite loss, or a lowered heart rate without the accompanying drop in body temperature that characterizes true hibernation.