Reptiles and amphibians are ectotherms, meaning they do not generate or regulate their body temperature internally, so what do they do when it is too hot or too cold? How do aquatic turtles manage life when the lakes and rivers freeze over? Herps do not hibernate exactly like mammals, which has led to some debate over the appropriate terminology. Some people call what reptiles do “brumation,” a term proposed in 1965, but other scientists consider that to be unnecessary jargon, as animals overwinter in various ways and “hibernation” sufficiently covers the spectrum. Regardless of what you call it, many animals are less active and use fewer calories in the winter than during other times of the year.
This lesson is part of Certified Herpetological Guide. Enrollment is self-paced, with no deadline to finish (about 50 hours).
