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Thomas E asked in Science & MathematicsZoology · 1 decade ago

What is the medical definition of hibernation? Can humans achieve this state?

Just curious, no strange plans! Seems like a good way to save energy...

2 Answers

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  • Anonymous
    1 decade ago
    Favorite Answer

    There is a difference between winter dormancy (bats and bears) and hibernation (amphibians, poorwills, dormice, etc). To be in a true state of hibernation, the metabolic rate must drop radically. Try picking up a bat during the winter or go into a bear's den and you will learn the difference in a hurry. Remember, bears give birth and nurse the cubs during the winter.

  • 1 decade ago

    It means to be in a dormant state resembling sleep over the winter while living off reserves of body fat with a decrease in body temperature and pulse rate and slower metabolism,animals that do this are bears,bats and many amphibians.No I don't think humans can achieve this,the only state that they would be in would be a coma,but I like your idea!

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