UPSC Prelims 2014 Question:

Consider the following:

1. Bats 
2. Bears 
3. Rodents
   
   

The phenomenon of hibernation can be observed in which of the above kinds of animals?

Explanation:

• Hibernation is a state of greatly reduced metabolic activity and lowered body temperature adopted by certain mammals as an adaptation to adverse winter conditions. They spend most of the winter sleeping in dens.
  
  
• Among mammals, true hibernators are found only in the orders Chiroptera (bats), Insectivora (hedgehogs and allies), bears and Rodentia (ground squirrels, marmots, etc.). Typically, the hibernator relies on a combination of reserve body fat, stored food supplies (in rodents only), and a protected den to enable it to survive the winter. So, points 1, 2 and 3 are correct.
  
  

Therefore, option (3) is the correct answer.

Subject:  Environment | Plant and Animal Anatomy