Here's why:
* Food Scarcity: In many areas, food sources like berries, nuts, and insects become scarce during winter.
* Energy Conservation: Hibernation allows bears to conserve energy by slowing down their metabolism and lowering their body temperature.
* Living off Fat Reserves: Bears spend the fall months eating voraciously to build up a thick layer of fat. This fat is their energy source throughout the winter.
While they may technically be asleep, bears are not in a deep sleep like other hibernating animals. They can awaken briefly, move around, and even leave their dens if necessary.
Let me know if you'd like to know more about bear hibernation! 🐻