Mammals and birds eat more often than reptiles.Which of the following traits shared by mammals and birds best explains this habit?

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Endothermy, or the ability to regulate body temperature using metabolic processes, allows mammals and birds to maintain a constant internal environment even in changing external temperatures. This means that they are able to sustain high metabolic rates and have a higher energy requirement. Eating more frequently allows them to fuel their metabolism and maintain their body temperature. Reptiles, which are ectothermic, have a lower metabolic rate and can go for longer periods of time without eating because they do not need to constantly generate heat internally.

Mammals and Birds Eat More Often Than Reptiles