User:Yarelsu/Brandt's vole

Cold Adaptations

When exposed to cold temperatures, an increase in a vole’s resting metabolic rate is observed (Zhang and De-Hua). This increased metabolic rate is caused by activity from mitochondria, as energy is being used. Nonshivering thermogenesis, decreased serum leptin levels, fat mobilization, and hyperphagia are all associated adaptations Brandt’s voles undergo in cold environments (Wang, Cui, and Tang). HHyperphagia, or serious hunger leading to increased food intake, is the highest in colder months, but voles expend so much energy during this period that they weigh less in summer months (Li and Wang).