What critters do you think of when you hear hibernation? Bears, of course! Well, shocker–bears don’t truly hibernate! In fact, most animals don’t actually hibernate in the winter, according to the official definition of the word. In order for an animal to be a true hibernator, three things must occur consciously: 1) lowered metabolism 2) lowered body temperature 3) lowered heart rate.
Black bears lower their metabolism and heart rate, but they do not lower their body temperatures. In fact, black bears everywhere will go dormant in winter due to the lack of food associated with the season, not solely because of dropping temperatures.
Instead of true hibernation, many animals enter a stage called “torpor” which is like a light, involuntary hibernation. It is widely defined as “a state of physical or mental inactivity; lethargy.” Generally, it involves several but not all characteristics of hibernation, depending on the critter. It can last from one day to several months. In fact, even domesticated hamsters can slip into torpor, which is why many folks panic that their seemingly healthy rodent friend has suddenly “passed” in the winter time.
What animals in Pennsylvania actually hibernate? Groundhogs, wood frogs, the woodland mouse, the meadow jumping mouse, bumblebee queens, and all 11 of our bat species are true hibernators. They “sleep” completely throughout the winter in a state near death and will not wake if provoked.
These cold temperatures make us humans want to hibernate! By the end of the month, 75% of folks will have quit their New Year’s resolution. How could any but the iron-willed persevere in a season of dormancy? We fight an uphill battle by trying new beginnings and resolutions in this a season where Mother Nature scolds us to head to bed early. If we can do anything, we can be kind and gentle with ourselves.
Personally, I like to continue to rest for the winter and enjoy a “spring resolution” in conjunction with the upcoming season of warmth and new beginnings. I feel more motivated and energetic once the earth is thawing and waking. Perhaps you will too, friend.
About the author: “Hemlock” Hannah Kulbitsky is the full-time Environmental Education and Outreach Coordinator for the Schuylkill Conservation District. She provides environmental programs to the public and handles outreach like the district social media. Hannah is a Skook native and holds a double B.A. in Sustainability Studies and Theater from Muhlenberg College.
Follow the Schuylkill Conservation District @schuylkillcd on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube for more, and go to schuylkillcd.com for our seasonal newsletter.
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