During the freezing winter months in Massachusetts, it’s no surprise that the amount of wilderness that can be seen is greatly decreased. Many people believe that during winter, most animals hibernate and that is why you do not see them. However, it may surprise you to learn that only a small few actually enter “true” hibernation. Some others use similar methods to outlast the cold months, and still others can be seen out and about throughout Winter.
Animals That Hibernate During Winter
Of the many different species that live in MA, only seven of them enter some degree of hibernation. Of those seven, only three are “true hibernators”. This means that when they go into dormancy in the winter, they have reduced metabolism, a slower heart rate, and lowered body temperatures. The three true hibernators of MA, that you should never see during winter, are woodchucks, jumping mice, and bats.
The other four animals that hibernate to some degree are chipmunks, black bears, raccoons, and striped skunks. They are not true hibernators because they can go in and out of dormancy.