How long can a *Crotalus atrox* survive without any caloric intake due to its slow metabolism?
Answer
Up to two years
The slow metabolic rate inherent to cold-blooded animals like the Western Diamondback allows for remarkable energy conservation, which directly impacts its required feeding frequency. Because their metabolism slows down significantly, particularly when inactive or during periods of low energy demand, they do not need to consume food regularly like endotherms. The text provides an extreme example of this efficiency, stating that studies have demonstrated the *C. atrox*'s ability to endure periods extending as long as two years without consuming any calories, provided they drastically reduce their overall energy expenditure during that time.
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