Abstract
The woodchuck (Marmota monax) is a true hibernator that does not store food for winter use but subsists entirely on fat reserve stored in the body. The rate at which the stored fat is utilized determines the duration of survival during the months of normal hibernation. Woodchucks were induced to hibernate in a laboratory situation. As they were given no food or water during the hibernation period, the daily loss of weight was an indication of the amount of fat utilized.The hibernation state was found to be about seven times more efficient than the aroused state in conserving energy. An average rate of weight loss for woodchucks for the period from the time of disappearance from above ground in fall to the time of emergence in the spring and to the end of the breeding season is presented.
Published Version
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