What is often associated with "nocturnal" animals?

The term "nocturnal" specifically refers to animals that are active during the night and rest during the day. This adaptation allows these animals to take advantage of cooler temperatures and reduced competition for resources such as food and mates during the nighttime. Increased activity at night is a defining characteristic of nocturnal behavior, which is linked to various evolved traits that help these animals thrive in their environments.

In contrast, activity during the daytime refers to diurnal animals, which have contrasting behaviors. Adaptation to cold environments may apply to various species but is not a characteristic that defines nocturnal animals specifically. Similarly, a tendency for migration is unrelated to nocturnal activity, as many migratory animals can be either diurnal or nocturnal, depending on their species and habitat needs. Thus, increased activity at night is the clear identification of nocturnal animals.