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brumation (broo-MAY-shuhn) - n., a state of torpor during cold weather undergone by reptiles and certain other animals such as bears.
Unlike in hibernation, which is full dormancy, brumating animals can be roused relatively easily -- metabolic processes have slowed down but not ceased, and a warm day (or a sharp stick) can make them active again. This is why "hibernating" bears are so dangerous -- they aren't hibernating. Coined from the example of hibernation, using a different Latin word meaning winter (brume).
---L.
Unlike in hibernation, which is full dormancy, brumating animals can be roused relatively easily -- metabolic processes have slowed down but not ceased, and a warm day (or a sharp stick) can make them active again. This is why "hibernating" bears are so dangerous -- they aren't hibernating. Coined from the example of hibernation, using a different Latin word meaning winter (brume).
---L.
