Winter body temperature patterns in free-ranging Cape ground squirrel, Xerus inauris: no evidence for torpor.

摘要: The body temperature (Tb) of Cape ground squirrels (Xerus inauris, Sciuridae) living in their natural environment during winter has not yet been investigated. In this study we measured abdominal Tb eight free-ranging over 27 consecutive days the austral winter. Mean daily was relatively stable at 37.0 ± 0.2°C (range 33.4 to 40.2°C) despite a marked variation globe (Tg) −7 37°C). Lactating females (n = 2) consistently had significantly higher mean (0.7°C) than non-lactating 3) and males. There pronounced nychthemeral rhythm with active phase 38.1 0.1°C inactive 36.3 0.3°C for individuals. amplitude 3.8 0.2°C. closely followed Tg correlated (r2 0.3–0.9; P < 0.01). no evidence torpor or hypothermia phase, minimum 35.7 Several alternatives (including nocturnal huddling, an aseasonal breeding pattern abundant food resources) as why do employ are discussed.