Chipmunks hibernate during the winter season, even though they do not store fat. Instead of sleeping throughout that entire time, they wake up every few days.
During hibernation, chipmunks go into a deep sleep from which they can be very difficult to move or excite. Their heartbeats drop from 350 beats per minute to 4 beats per minute. Also, the body temperature lowers from 94 degrees Fahrenheit to the temperature in the hole. This hibernation allows them to survive the winter. However, chipmunks in warmer areas are less likely to hibernate during the cold seasons. Chipmunks feed on stored seeds and nuts throughout the winter during hibernation.
