Final answer:
Organisms that consume large amounts of food before entering dormancy typically do so as preparation for hibernation, a state of prolonged torpor during the winter when resources are scarce.
Step-by-step explanation:
The characteristic of organisms consuming large quantities of food before entering a state of dormancy is most commonly associated with hibernation. Animals that hibernate, such as bats, squirrels, and snakes, go through a period of torpor over a long time span, typically during winter months, when food is scarce and temperatures are low. During hibernation, these animals slow down their bodily functions and reduce their metabolic rate to conserve energy. This state helps them survive periods when the environment does not readily support their active survival needs.
On the other hand, estivation occurs during periods of high temperatures and dry conditions, such as in summer months in certain environments. Animals, including some reptiles like lizards, will enter estivation and undergo similar physiological changes to those in hibernation, such as slowing their metabolism and conserving water, to survive the harsh conditions until the environment becomes more favorable.