Goosebumps
Posted by Elise O'Callaghan on March 21, 2005
Q: Why would a small mammals shiver more than a large mammaal on a cold day?
A: It's because small mammals chill more quickly than large mammals in a cold environment - it's all a matter of proportion. The amount of surface area (skin) of a small animal is much greater compared to its total body size than that of a larger animal. So, a mouse has lots and lots of surface area, compared to its size, from which heat can be lost. On the other hand, an elephant has less surface area, compared to its total body size, so it cools more slowly. Hope this helps.
John Wiessinger ( March 21, 2005)
Filed under: Ecology