The Complexities of Hibernation: Understanding Animal Dormancy

The video explores the complex process of hibernation, focusing on the role of the endocrine system and hormones in regulating this state. It explains how metabolism slows down, allowing animals to conserve energy. The video distinguishes between hibernation and torpor, highlighting physiological changes like heart rate and breathing. It also addresses waste management during hibernation, including the formation of fecal plugs in bears.

What system in the body controls hibernation through hormone release?

• Digestive system

• Endocrine system

• Nervous system

• Respiratory system

What happens to an animal's metabolism during hibernation?

• It remains the same

• It speeds up

• It slows down

• It stops completely

Which of the following is true about torpor?

• Animals in torpor do not store fat

• Animals in torpor may wake to eat

• Animals in torpor do not eat at all

• Animals in torpor have a significant drop in body temperature

What is the set point in the context of hibernation?

• The temperature at which metabolism stops

• The average temperature during hibernation

• The minimum temperature a bear's body can drop to

• The maximum temperature an animal can reach

How much can a hibernating animal's heart rate decrease?

• It doubles

• It remains constant

• It decreases to 50% of its normal rate

• It can decrease to as little as 2.5% of its normal rate

Do animals typically excrete waste during hibernation?

• Yes, they excrete regularly

• No, they do not excrete waste

• Only during the first month

• Only when they wake up

What unusual feature do bears develop during torpor?

• Higher body temperature

• Increased appetite

• A fecal plug

• A thicker fur coat