Animals undergo a process known as hibernation to survive winter conditions. During hibernation, animals enter a state of significantly reduced metabolic activity, allowing them to conserve energy when food supplies are scarce and temperatures drop. This physiological state involves lower heart rates, slowed respiration, and decreased body temperature. Hibernating species, such as bears and certain rodents, prepare for this period by building fat reserves and creating insulated sleeping areas. Some animals may also enter torpor, a shorter-term hibernation-like state. Hibernation helps many species survive harsh winters, emerging when conditions improve and food becomes more readily available.