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Cold Weather Adaptations
Posted by Jeff Hathaway on October 31, 2009 at 5:13 PM
Our touring of schools is slowing down as we reach our targets set in the funding proposals (and those funds run low). This doesn't mean that we are slowing down our mission to educate everyone about the fantastic things our Ontario reptiles can do.
As the weather gets colder and threatens to bring the snow, it is interesting to consider how our ectothermic reptiles and amphibians deal with this weather. Where do they overwinter? Do they stay cold, or find warm places? What is rectal breathing in turtles? Do some creatures actually freeze solid only to thaw out in the spring?
For the month of November we shall investigate these adaptations to winter, focusing on species found in Ontario. I hope that these adapations will delight and enlighten you as you stay warm in your houses or get bundled up to enjoy the winter weather.
M.