Some bats maintain their internal temperatures metabolically during spring and summer but hibernate in large groups during the winter.They therefore can be considered
A) endotherms.
B) ectotherms.
C) heterotherms.
D) pyrotherms.
E) varitherms.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Heterotherms are animals that can regulate their body temperature to some extent but can also allow their body temperature to vary depending on the external environment. Bats that maintain their internal temperatures metabolically during spring and summer but hibernate in large groups during the winter are able to maintain a relatively constant body temperature during active periods, but allow their body temperature to drop significantly during hibernation. This makes them heterotherms. Endotherms, such as mammals and birds, maintain a constant internal body temperature regardless of the environment. Ectotherms, such as reptiles and amphibians, rely on external heat sources to regulate their body temperature. Pyrotherms and varitherms are not commonly used terms in biology.

Some Bats Maintain Their Internal Temperatures Metabolically During Spring and Summer