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Learn more about "Crepuscular"

Crepuscular

Crepuscular is a term used to describe animals that are primarily active during twilight, that is at dawn and at dusk. The word is derived from the Latin word ''crepusculum'', meaning "twilight". Crepuscular is thus in contrast with diurnal animal|diurnal and nocturnal animal|nocturnal behavior. Crepuscular animals may also be active on a bright moonlit night. Many animals that are casually described as nocturnal are in fact crepuscular. Within the definition of crepuscular are the terms ''matutinal'' (or "matinal") and ''vespertine (biology)|vespertine'', denoting species active in the dawn and dusk respectively. The patterns of activity are thought to represent a response to selection from predators. Many predators forage most intensely at night, while others are active at mid-day and see best in full sun. Thus the crepuscular habit may reduce predation. Additionally, in hot areas, it may be a way of avoiding thermal stress while capitalizing on available light. Crepuscular mammals include the red panda, cat, dog, deer, moose, rabbit, chinchilla, ferret, guinea pig, hamster, common mouse, skunk, rat, and capybara. Crepuscular birds include the common nighthawk, chimney swift, American woodcock and spotted crake. Some species have different habits in the absence of predators. For example, the short-eared owl is crepuscular on those of the Galápagos Islands that have buzzard species, but diurnal on those without. Many moths, beetles, Diptera|flies, and other insects are crepuscular as well.

References

Category:Ethology Category:Night

Related Images

- Short-eared Owl

Sources: StartLearningNow, Wikipedia | Usage license: GNU FDL

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