Nocturnal hypothermia in the Inca dove, Scardafella inca

Abstract

1. 1. When derived of food and/or water Inca doves experience pronounced nocturnal hypothermia, the depth of which is independent of T A and reflects nutritional state. 2. 2. Nocturnal hypothermia results in considerable conservation of both energy and water, the magnitude depending upon depth of hypothermia. 3. 3. Body temperature fluctuations operate on a strict circadian schedule even in the absence of photoperiodic clues, denoting precise endogenous control.