The study of mammals that hibernate provides a unique avenue for students to explore the concepts of metabolism, bone structure, and the impact of climate change on mammals with evolutionary adaptations to extreme seasonal changes in food supply. “Secrets of the Hibernators” is a student-centered, self-guided kit developed by educators in close collaboration with biologists studying the physiology of hibernating animals. The kit uses a hands-on, inquiry-based approach, providing students access to research data that they can easily analyze and interpret, as well as an experimental model for exploring how temperature can affect metabolism. Students learn how the study of hibernators may provide clues to help find solutions to human diseases such as obesity and osteoporosis.

Keywords:
hibernation, metabolism, marmot, ground squirrel, black bear, bone density, climate change
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2021
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