teplokrvný

Teplokrvný is a term often used in popular science and sometimes colloquially to describe animals that maintain a constant, high internal body temperature. This is scientifically known as endothermy. Endothermic animals, such as mammals and birds, generate heat internally through metabolic processes. This allows them to function in a wide range of environmental temperatures, unlike ectothermic ("cold-blooded") animals which rely on external sources of heat.

The ability to regulate body temperature internally provides several advantages. It enables endotherms to be active in cooler climates and at night, and often supports higher levels of sustained activity. However, maintaining a high body temperature is metabolically expensive, requiring a significant intake of food. Birds and mammals have evolved various physiological and behavioral adaptations to manage this, including insulation like feathers and fur, shivering to generate heat, and sweating or panting to dissipate excess heat. The term "teplokrvný" emphasizes this internal heat generation and regulation.