Torpor

Torpor is a state of regulated hypothermia, lasting just a few hours. It is a condition when body temperature of endotherm is lower than normal. Animals that go through torpor include small birds like hummingbirds and some small mammals such as bats. During the active part of their day these animals maintain normal body temperature, but their body temperature drops to conserve energy while asleep. Torpor is used to survive in the cold. As soon as the temperature is recovered, the organism is able to continue its activities. Torpor can be beneficial to an organism because it allows the organism to save the amount of energy used. There can also be a disadvantage when the animal is back on regular activity, the source of food may be limited.