hibernator
Dormant cold-season creature
A hibernator is an animal that hibernates—entering a prolonged dormant state during winter months when food is scarce.
Bears, groundhogs, and bats are classic hibernators.
The term extends figuratively to people who become inactive or reclusive during cold months: I'm a hibernator—don't expect to see me until spring.
Large furry omnivore
- groundhogNorth American burrowing marmot
- chipmunkStriped burrowing rodent
- hedgehogSpiny nocturnal mammal
- batFlying mammal or sports club
dormouse · marmot · squirrel · hamster · badger · skunk · raccoon · woodchuck
Recurring unconscious repose
- dormancySuspended biological activity
- denningRetiring to lair
- estivationWarm-season torpor state
- inactivityLack of movement
lethargy · rest · slumber · quiescence · fasting · fattening · preparation · emergence
Inactive, sluggish state
- metabolismCellular nutrient conversion
- fatAdipose tissue
- thermoregulationMaintaining stable internal heat
- endothermicAbsorbing thermal energy
heartrate · energy · insulation · fur · dormancy · arousal · slowdown · conservation
bear
Large furry omnivore
- groundhogNorth American burrowing marmot
- chipmunkStriped burrowing rodent
- hedgehogSpiny nocturnal mammal
bat · dormouse · marmot · squirrel · hamster · badger · skunk · raccoon · woodchuck · lemur
sleep
Recurring unconscious repose
- dormancySuspended biological activity
- denningRetiring to lair
- estivationWarm-season torpor state
inactivity · lethargy · rest · slumber · quiescence · fasting · fattening · preparation · emergence · survival
torpor
Inactive, sluggish state
- metabolismCellular nutrient conversion
- fatAdipose tissue
- thermoregulationMaintaining stable internal heat
endothermic · heartrate · energy · insulation · fur · dormancy · arousal · slowdown · conservation · reserves
den
Private room or lair
hollow · lodge · underground · hideaway · chamber · refuge · log · tunnel · lair · shelter
- cave dwellersbat, cave cricket, cave spider, cave bear, caveman
hibernate, hibernating, hibernation, hibernates, hibernated, hibernators, hibernations