Mystery Science - Why do Bears Hibernate?

Front

What does hibernation mean?

Back

Hibernation means being inactive for months in the winter.

Front

Are animals that hibernate really asleep?

Back

No, animals that hibernate have slowed down all their body processes.

Front

How can we think of hibernation?

Back

We can think of hibernation as the animal putting their body on pause.

Front

Why do animals hibernate?

Back

Animals hibernate because there isn't enough of their food source available during the winter.

Front

When bears wake up from hibernation, are they ready to find friends or food?

Back

False, when bears wake up from hibernation, they are not perky and ready to find friends or food.

Front

What is one reason bears hibernate?

Back

Bears hibernate to conserve energy when food is scarce.

Front

What happens to a bear's body temperature during hibernation?

Back

A bear's body temperature drops during hibernation.

Front

How long can bears hibernate?

Back

Bears can hibernate for several months, typically from late fall to early spring.

Front

What do bears rely on before hibernation?

Back

Bears rely on fat reserves built up during the summer and fall before hibernation.

Front

What is a common misconception about hibernation?

Back

A common misconception is that hibernating animals are in a deep sleep.