TORPOR
Identifying Native Wildlife in Torpor
Torpor is a remarkable survival strategy used by many Australian native animals to cope with periods of cold and food scarcity. If you come across an animal that appears unresponsive, it’s important to know the signs of torpor versus distress or injury.
What is Torpor?
Torpor is a temporary state where an animal slows its body functions—such as heart rate, breathing, and body temperature—to conserve energy. It often occurs overnight or during particularly cold days.
Common Australian species that use torpor:
- Sugar gliders
- Feathertail gliders
- Microbats
- Pygmy possums
How to Recognise Torpor
Imagine a cool winter morning in the bush. You spot a tiny creature motionless in a tree hollow, its fur fluffed up, eyes closed. You listen: its breathing is shallow, almost imperceptible. You gently observe from a distance as sunlight gradually warms the hollow, and after a while, the animal stirs and begins to move.
Torpor Indicators
| Indicator | Description |
|---|---|
| Still, natural position | Resting in a typical hiding place (tree hollow, roost) |
| Appears uninjured | No wounds, bleeding, or obvious distress |
| Slow, shallow breathing | Chest barely rises and falls |
| Limp body, but not stiff | Muscles relaxed, not rigid or tense |
| Warms up over time | Starts to show movement as the day warms |
Sensory clues:
- Visual: The animal looks peaceful, fur is smooth, no visible injury.
- Auditory: Breathing is soft, nearly silent.
- Tactile (if checked by experts only): The animal feels cool, not ice-cold or stiff.
Warning Signs of Distress or Injury
If you find an animal in the open, such as on a footpath or exposed ground, it may be in trouble. Injured animals often show additional signs:
| Warning Sign | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Out in the open | Lying on the ground, in clear view of predators |
| No response to warmth | Remains unresponsive as the temperature rises |
| Visible injuries or bleeding | Wounds, blood, or presence of flies. |
| Cold and unresponsive | Feels cold, does not move, even in an unsafe location |
What to Do If You Find an Animal
- Observe from a distance:
Watch the animal for signs of natural warming or movement as the day progresses. - Do not handle unless necessary:
Handling can cause stress and may be harmful, especially if the animal is simply in torpor. - If in doubt, seek advice:
If you suspect injury or the animal is in a dangerous location, contact a wildlife rescue organisation.
Who to Contact
For expert advice or rescue:
- Call WIRES on 1300 094 737
- Visit WIRES website to report a rescue
Conservation Message
Understanding torpor helps us protect these remarkable animals. By recognising the difference between a resting animal and one in distress, we can avoid unnecessary interference and ensure that help is given when truly needed. With every informed action, you contribute to the well-being and conservation of Australia’s unique wildlife.
Next time you’re out in nature, remember: sometimes the best help is respectful observation.
Reference: Dr Matt West, Wild Research Pty Ltd