What is a common symptom of hypothermia in wildlife?

Hypothermia in wildlife manifests primarily through shivering and lethargy as the body struggles to maintain its core temperature in cold conditions. Shivering is an involuntary response that helps generate heat, while lethargy occurs as the animal's metabolism slows down due to insufficient body temperature, affecting its overall energy and activity levels.

The presence of these symptoms can indicate that the animal is at risk and requires immediate intervention. In contrast, the other options depict behaviors that would not typically align with a state of hypothermia. Excessive grooming and playfulness suggest a healthy or content animal, while rapid breathing and excitement could indicate stress or fear rather than a response to cold. Similarly, vocalization and aggression are more associated with defensive behaviors or distress in situations unrelated to hypothermia. Understanding these symptoms is crucial for wildlife rehabilitators to provide appropriate care and interventions for affected animals in cold environments.