Abstract
The metabolic activity of non-hibernating woodchucks (Marmota monax) was measured over a 1-year period. The Haldane method of indirect calorimetry was used to measure CO2 production to provide an index of metabolism. The metabolic rate was seasonally cyclic, reaching a peak in May and decreasing gradually throughout the summer. The lowest monthly values occurred from November through February (the normal time of hibernation for these animals), though the animals were kept from hibernating. The seasonal decrease in metabolism probably creates a physiological predisposition for hibernation and allows fat deposition without a great increase in food intake.
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