Relatively simple, precise methods to analyze temperature transients in ectotherms.

Relatively complex core-shell models have been used to precisely characterize times and temperatures for ectotherms. There is a simpler method using a second-order analysis of heat flux. We derive the method from an equivalent mechanical system, correct some previously published inaccuracies, and show how to use the method by analyzing thermal transients for House Wren eggs under natural conditions.