Body temperature and metabolism in the red-backed mousebird (Colius castanotus) during fasting and torpor

摘要: Abstract 1. Body temperature ( T b ) and metabolism M of red-backed mousebirds Colius castanotus fed ad libitum are in the same range as reported for other bird species similar size (69 g). 2. The interrelation between (J/g-hr) ambient a can be described by formula = 78.7− 1.63 . thermal conductance varies from 2.1 to 2.5 J/g·hr·°C (predicted value 2.44). 3. Sub-maintenance feeding leads gradual decrease following loss body mass b.m. ). corresponding regression lines are: −12.7 + 0.83 −98.1 2.4 respectively. decreased more favourable values 1.9 J/g-hr-°C due smaller difference − 4. relation Q 10 was determined 2.04–2.77 indicating that decline closely follows physico-chemical conditions. 5. After long period food deprivation about 35%, birds enter state torpidity. torpid may fall less than 1/3 (on average) basal levels depending on actual reached after cooling. approximates with critical level 18°C, below which no spontaneous arousal is possible uncontrolled hypothermia.