During Its Months-Long Hibernation in Its Burrow, the Body Temperature

Question

During its months-long hibernation in its burrow, the body temperature of a ground squirrel
A) is held at a constant 37°C.
B) is held at a constant 5°C.
C) varies between 5°C and 37°C, depending on the frequency of arousals from hibernation.
D) varies between 5°C and 15°C, depending on the external temperature outside of the burrow.
E) varies between -5°C and +5°C, depending on the temperature in the burrow.

Accepted Answer

During hibernation, the body temperature of a ground squirrel varies between 5°C and 37°C, largely due to periodic arousals from hibernation. These arousals temporarily raise the animal's body temperature to near normal levels before it returns to a lower temperature during hibernation.