Hibernation Exploration
A Grade 5 science worksheet exploring the concept of hibernation, why animals hibernate, and the characteristics of hibernating animals.
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Hibernation Exploration
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Read each question carefully and answer to the best of your ability. Some questions may require you to think about what you know about animals and their environments.
What is Hibernation?
Hibernation is a state of minimal activity and metabolic depression in endotherms. It is a seasonal heterothermy characterized by low body temperature, slow breathing, and low metabolic rate. Hibernating animals conserve energy during times when food is scarce, typically during winter.
1. What is the main reason animals hibernate?
To stay warm in summer
To conserve energy when food is scarce
To play hide-and-seek with predators
To grow new fur
2. Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of hibernation?
Low body temperature
Fast breathing
Slow metabolic rate
Minimal activity
3. Hibernation helps animals conserve during times when food is .
4. Animals that hibernate are often found in environments with cold .
5. All animals hibernate during the winter.
True
False
6. A hibernating animal's heart rate is much slower than when it is active.
True
False
7. Name two animals that are known to hibernate.
8. Besides conserving energy, what is another benefit of hibernation for animals?
Use the words below to complete the sentences.
9. During hibernation, an animal's drops significantly.
10. Animals often build up a layer of before hibernating to use as energy.