Animals & Sleep

Animals are sleeping all around us.  But it can be hard to see them. Sleep is a vulnerable time for most animals in the wild. They are unable to protect themselves while they are sleeping.  This is why many animals prefer to sleep where they can remain hidden.

The reclusive nature of many sleeping animals makes it hard for scientists to observe them.  Most studies have been performed in zoos.  Few animals have been studied while sleeping in their natural environment.  So there is still much for us to learn about sleeping animals. 

We’re not even sure if all animals sleep.  But we do know some fascinating details about animals and their sleep habits.  Select one of the links below to learn more:

• How do animals sleep?
• When and where do animals sleep?
• For how many hours do animals sleep?