Hibernation (Greenwood Guides to the Animal World)

We share the earth with a wide variety of animal species, each of which brings something special to the diversity of the planet. By knowing more about how animals behave and live, we gain a greater understanding of how life evolved and the importance of biodiversity. Hibernation examines those animals that cannot migrate and are forced to remain in a habitat that is inhospitable and consequently sleep deeply for weeks or months. Known as hibernation for winter sleep and estivation for its summer equivalent, this unique trait involves many special behaviors -- how do such animals prepare for sleep? where do they sleep? how do they store energy? how do they wake up? The book provides a thorough guide, perfect for research papers in biology classes, for understanding the behavior and biodiversity of a fascinating and unusual group of animals.

Beautifully illustrated, with numerous color images, Hibernation provides copious material for understanding these unusual animals.