Nocturnal Decline in the Temperature of Birds in Cold Weather
Irving L. 1955. Nocturnal Decline in the Temperature of Birds in Cold Weather. The Condor. 57(6):362-365
The body temperature in seven species of birds captured in Alaska and held in captivity at Anchorage was examined at various times of day. In winter air temperatures between -9°C and -22°C, the body temperatures by day were about those reported for these species on warmer days. At night they were from 0.9°C to 4°C lower. The night-time decline in body temperature was similar to that reported to occur in temperate climates. Considering that activity can elevate body temperature some 3°C above that at rest, it is apparent that homoiothermous animals change body temperature in sleep, waking rest, and activity in cold as in temperature weather.
- Type
- Journal Article
- Authors
- Irving, Laurence
- Units
- ARCN , BELA , CAKR , GAAR , KOVA , NOAT
- Keywords
- ambient temperature, Arctic, Birds, homeothermy, Physiology, Temperature, Winter