A researcher is setting up an experiment to measure basal metabolic rate in prairie voles (Microtus ochrogaster–a small rodent). Which of the following would be the best set of conditions for the voles immediately before and during the measurement?

A) House the animals in a cage with plenty of food and water to avoid stress; conduct measurements in a warmer room than the room where housed.

B) House the animals in a cage with plenty of food and water to avoid stress; conduct measurements in a room the same temperature as the room where housed.

C) House the animals in a cage with no food for a few hours before measurement; conduct measurements in a colder room than the room where housed, and exercise the voles.

D) House the animals in a cage with no food for a few hours before measurement; conduct measurements in a room the same temperature as the room where housed