What is the difference between hibernation and torpor in hedgehogs?

Difference between Hibernation and Torpor in Hedgehogs

Hibernation and torpor are both natural physiological responses in hedgehogs to conserve energy during periods of cold or food scarcity, but there are key differences between the two. Hibernation is a long-term state of reduced metabolic activity that can last for weeks to months. During hibernation, hedgehogs enter a deep sleep-like state where their body temperature drops significantly, their heart rate slows down, and they rarely wake up to eat or drink. On the other hand, torpor is a short-term state of decreased activity and metabolism that can last for a few hours to a few days. Hedgehogs in torpor can still wake up to eat, drink, or move around, unlike in hibernation where they remain in a prolonged state of dormancy. Torpor is more of a daily or periodic cycle that hedgehogs enter to conserve energy without completely shutting down their bodily functions like in hibernation.

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