Development of temperature regulation in the common white-toothed shrew, Crocidura russula

1. Body temperature and oxygen consumption were measured during the first month of postnatal life in two litters of Crocidura russula at four different ambient temperatures. 2. Body temperature in the nest varies from 30.5-35.0 degrees C during the first 10 days; afterwards it becomes more constant (35.5-37.0 degrees C). 3. First homoiothermic reactions occur on the 2nd day of life and become effective on the 4th day. 4. In the case of undernourished shrews, torpor is already developed on the 2nd day. 5. After the 7th day torpor is the obligatory reaction in cooling experiments. 6. This discontinuous development of temperature regulation is interpreted as typical for shrews capable of torpor.