Freeze avoidance in a mammal: body temperatures below 0 degree C in an Arctic hibernator.

B M Barnes

June 1989 Science

Synopsis of Social media discussions

The discussions clearly express interest and agreement, with comments like 'can drop their core temperature to as low as -2.9°C,' emphasizing the remarkable nature of these findings. The choice of words such as 'drop,' 'avoid freezing,' and specific temperature figures highlights both curiosity and respect for the research, while the tone remains informative and appreciative of its significance.

A
Agreement
 Moderate agreement

Most discussions affirm the findings about the arctic ground squirrels' ability to avoid freezing at very low body temperatures, indicating agreement on the significance of the research.

I
Interest
 High level of interest

The tweets demonstrate high interest by highlighting surprising facts about hibernation and mentioning specific temperature details, which captivate curiosity.

E
Engagement
 Moderate level of engagement

Participants actively discuss the physiological adaptations and implications, showing thoughtful engagement beyond superficial remarks.

I
Impact
 Moderate level of impact

The discussion reflects an appreciation for the research's importance in understanding freeze avoidance, which could influence broader scientific perspectives on mammalian hibernation.

Social Mentions

YouTube

2 Videos

Twitter

2 Posts

Blogs

4 Articles

News

5 Articles

Reddit

2 Posts

Metrics

Video Views

1,600,508

Total Likes

26,231

Extended Reach

1,602,937

Social Features

15

Timeline: Posts about article

Top Social Media Posts

Posts referencing the article

Understanding Hibernation: Adaptations and Survival Mechanisms

Understanding Hibernation: Adaptations and Survival Mechanisms

Hibernation is a physiological strategy that helps mammals survive extreme challenges like cold temperatures and food scarcity. This video discusses various hibernation types and the cellular, molecular, and physiological adaptations necessary for coping with these environmental stressors.

Real Science

February 18, 2023

1,598,742 views

Arctic Ground Squirrels Survive Freezing Temperatures During Hibernation

Arctic Ground Squirrels Survive Freezing Temperatures During Hibernation

During hibernation, the Arctic ground squirrel drops its core body temperature below freezing, reaching lows of 29C without freezing. Discover how this rodent uses biological adaptations like supercooled blood and metabolic shutdown to survive extreme cold.

Proof of Concept Creatives

August 6, 2025

1,766 views


  • @citrushark (Twitter)

    RT @citrushark: #FactFriday during hibernation, arctic ground squirrels (Urocitellus parryii) can drop their core temperature to as low as…
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    September 10, 2022

    1


  • @citrushark (Twitter)

    #FactFriday during hibernation, arctic ground squirrels (Urocitellus parryii) can drop their core temperature to as low as −2.9 °C (26.8 °F). (Photo: Russel Hood) https://t.co/rpPl7T5oKQ https://t.co/CHPlV0NmDA
    view full post

    September 9, 2022

    2

    1

Abstract Synopsis

  • Hibernating arctic ground squirrels can spontaneously raise their body temperature from as low as 29°C without freezing, even when their core temperatures are below 0°C.
  • During outdoor hibernation, these squirrels' abdominal temperatures can drop as low as 19°C, and soil temperatures at their burrows can go down to about 6°C, yet they avoid freezing.
  • Laboratory studies showed that despite body temperatures dropping below 0°C, the squirrels' plasma solute levels remain normal, and there is no evidence of antifreeze molecules, indicating they employ other freeze-avoidance strategies.