This Animal Can Sleep For 3 Years
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7 January 2025
Snails can hibernate or go into a deep sleep-like state called estivation, depending on the climate
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They have been known to survive for up to 3 years without food or water
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Estivation occurs in hot, dry conditions to help them survive harsh environments
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During estivation, snails seal themselves inside their shells using a layer of mucus to retain moisture
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This long sleep isn't normal behaviour but a survival response to extreme conditions
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Snails reduce their metabolic activity drastically during this state. They don't eat, move, or grow while in hibernation or estivation
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Once the environment becomes favourable again (moist and cool) they wake up and resume activity
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Not all snails can survive for years like this. It depends on the species
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This ability shows how well-adapted snails are to different environmental challenges
Image: Pexels
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