What does thermoregulation mean?

**Thermoregulation** is the maintenance of a relatively stable core body temperature as environmental conditions change. It does not mean that an animal prevents all heat exchange; animals exchange heat and use physiological and behavioral responses to regulate body temperature. Nor does it describe environmental temperature control or an obligatory increase in feed intake. **Key takeaway:** Thermoregulation is an animal’s regulation of its own body temperature.\n\n**Glossary:**\n- **Core body temperature**: Temperature of the animal’s internal body.\n- **Homeothermy**: Maintaining body temperature within a relatively narrow range.