You might remember in science class learning about hibernation – a time when certain animals “sleep” for long periods during the winter. In reality, hibernation is much more complex than that. Hibernation is a period of dormancy that some animals undergo to conserve energy in order to survive adverse weather or lack of food, according to the Australian Academy of Science. From chipmunks to woodchucks, hundreds of animals hibernate. When an animal hibernates, its body temperature falls, its heart rate slows and its breath is more shallow Some bears do undergo a period of dormancy during winter, but they are not asleep the entire time. During their “hibernation,” bears do not eat or drink as often Since polar bears do not enter “deep hibernation,” their body temperatures won’t fall significantly and certain body functions will continue Female polar bears, especially pregnant ones, will undergo carnivore lethargy, according to SeaWorld. Male polar bears or those with cubs will often continue activity even during times of low food availability Not only are polar bears carnivores (meaning they mostly eat meat), but they are the most carnivorous member of the bear family. They need lots of seal fat to survive and will consume on average 4.4 pounds of fat per day, Polar bears aren’t picky eaters. Thanks to their keen sense of smell, they can find and eat carcasses of larger animals, such as whales, walruses and narwhals.
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Thursday, June 26, 2025