Animals That Hibernate

10 June ,2024

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As autumn nears its end, hedgehogs begin preparing for torpor. They search for ideal nesting spots, often opting for piles of leaves or the shelter of old buildings or sheds.

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Hedgehogs

Most snakes brumate, their dormancy duration varies by location; from months in Minnesota to weeks in Texas, triggered by shorter daylight. Snakes emerge periodically during brumation to hydrate. 

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Snakes

Snails hibernate in extreme weather, undergoing estivation in hot temperatures and traditional hibernation in cold climates, utilizing built-in shelters for all conditions.

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Snails

Bumblebee life cycle starts in spring as the queen emerges from hibernation, laying broods of worker bees, new queens, and males. Old queen and workers perish as new queens prepare for hibernation, repeating the cycle.

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Bumblebees

Skunks, akin to hedgehogs, undergo torpor rather than true hibernation. In northern regions, they experience longer periods of torpor lasting a few months, while in southern areas, dormancy is briefer.

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Skunks

When temperatures drop, bats enter torpor to conserve energy, with durations ranging from hours to a month.

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Bats

Wood frogs enter hibernation with a stopped heart and frozen body, undergoing multiple freeze-thaw cycles until spring, when they resume feeding and mating activities.

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Wood Frog