What if disturbed when hibernating?

If an animal is disturbed during hibernation, it can lead to increased energy expenditure and stress. This interruption may cause the animal to awaken prematurely, which can be detrimental if food sources are scarce or if the weather is still harsh. In some cases, it can result in a higher risk of mortality due to depletion of fat reserves or vulnerability to predators. Overall, disturbances can significantly impact the health and survival of hibernating animals.