Skip to main content

Can you be awake and asleep at the same time? - Masako Tamaki

1,631,395 Views

16,319 Questions Answered

TEDEd Animation

Let’s Begin…

Many animals need sleep. But all of the threats and demands animals face don’t just go away when it’s time to doze. That’s why a range of birds, mammals, and even humans experience some degree of asymmetrical sleep, where parts of the brain are asleep and other areas are more active. So, how does it work? Masako Tamaki explores how animals' brains remain vigilant even at their most vulnerable.

About TED-Ed Animations

TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »

Meet The Creators

  • Educator Masako Tamaki
  • Director Biljana Labović
  • Narrator Jack Cutmore-Scott
  • Storyboard Artist Biljana Labović
  • Animator Iva Ćirić
  • Art Director Manja Ćirić
  • Sound Designer Weston Fonger
  • Composer Jarrett Farkas
  • Special Thanks Bill Plympton, Corey Allen Jackson
  • Director of Production Gerta Xhelo
  • Editorial Director Alex Rosenthal
  • Producer Bethany Cutmore-Scott
  • Associate Editorial Producer Cella Wright
  • Production Coordinator Abdallah Ewis
  • Script Editor Alex Gendler
  • Fact-Checker Jennifer Nam

More from Getting Under Our Skin