What is torpor?

Torpor refers to a state of lowered body temperature and reduced metabolic activity that some animals enter in response to environmental conditions, particularly cold temperatures and food scarcity. This adaptive behavior allows creatures to conserve energy during periods when maintaining regular metabolic functions would be unsustainable. In torpor, an animal's physiological processes slow down, resulting in lower energy requirements, which can be crucial for survival when resources are limited.

This phenomenon is observed in various species, including some birds and mammals, allowing them to survive through harsh winters or periods of food shortage. By entering torpor, animals can significantly reduce their energy expenditure, thus prolonging their survival until conditions improve, such as warmer temperatures or the availability of food. This understanding of torpor highlights the importance of behavioral adaptations in wildlife management and conservation.