Data from: hibernation telomere dynamics in a shifting climate: insights from wild greater horseshoe bats

Hibernation is linked with various hypotheses to explain the extended
lifespan of hibernating mammals compared with their non-hibernating
counterparts. Studies on telomeres, markers of ageing and somatic
maintenance, suggest telomere shortening slows during hibernation and
lengthening may reflect self-maintenance with favourable conditions. Bats
in temperate zones adjust body temperatures during winter torpor to
conserve energy and exploit mild conditions for foraging. Climate change
may impact the hibernation cycle of bats, but more research is needed
regarding the role of telomeres in understanding their response to a
changing climate. Here relative telomere length (rTL) was measured in the
long-lived greater horseshoe bat Rhinolophus ferrumequinum (n = 223
individuals) over three winters, considering climatic conditions.
Cross-sectional analyses revealed between-individual variation in rTL with
a strong year effect, likely linked to varying weather conditions and
foraging success. Additionally, within-individual increases of rTL
occurred in 51% of consecutive measurements, with evidence of increasing
telomerase expression during hibernation in this species. These findings
highlight the beneficial effects of hibernation on telomeres and potential
consequences of changing climatic conditions for long-lived temperate
bats. Understanding the interplay between hibernation, telomeres, and
climate can provide insights into the adaptive capacity and survival of
bat populations facing environmental challenges.