An Animal That Can Sleep for up to Three Years

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The snail can enter a state of dormancy called estivation which lets it avoid heat and dryness. Or it can go into hibernation to avoid cold temperatures. To protect itself, it will secrete a thick layer of mucus that hardens into a barrier which seals the opening of its shell. Their metabolism slows to conserve energy and moisture. The natural shield provided by the mucus prevents dehydration and when favorable weather returns it simply dissolves the barrier and reawakens.