Bearded Dragon Brumation

What is brumation and how to care for your Bearded Dragon during brumation.

7/20/20212 min read

bearded dragon brumation
bearded dragon brumation

Bearded dragons are fascinating reptiles that are popular among pet owners due to their docile nature and unique personalities. One aspect of their behavior that often surprises owners is brumation, which is a period of dormancy similar to hibernation in mammals. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at what brumation is, why bearded dragons undergo it, and how to care for your pet during this time.

What is Brumation?

Brumation is a state of dormancy that occurs in reptiles, similar to hibernation in mammals. During brumation, the bearded dragon's metabolism slows down, and their activity levels decrease significantly. This period can last anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on the individual animal and environmental factors.

Why do Bearded Dragons Brumate?

In the wild, bearded dragons brumate as a way to conserve energy during the winter months when food and water sources are scarce. They will dig burrows underground or find a warm, protected spot to rest until the warmer weather returns.

Pet bearded dragons will often brumate in response to changes in their environment, such as a decrease in daylight hours or a drop in temperature. However, some bearded dragons may not brumate at all, while others may brumate for extended periods. It's important to note that not all bearded dragons will brumate, and those that do may do so at different times of the year.

How to Care for Your Bearded Dragon During Brumation

If your bearded dragon begins to show signs of brumation, such as decreased activity levels and appetite, it's essential to provide the appropriate care to ensure their health and wellbeing during this time.

The first step is to provide a suitable enclosure for your bearded dragon to brumate in. This should be a warm, dark, and quiet area that is free from any disturbances. You can provide a burrowing box or hideout for your bearded dragon to create a sense of security and privacy during brumation.

Next, you should reduce the temperature and light levels in the enclosure to simulate the cooler conditions of winter. However, it's important to ensure that the temperature does not drop below 60°F (15°C) as this can be dangerous for your bearded dragon. You should also continue to provide fresh water and mist your dragon occasionally to prevent dehydration.

It's normal for your bearded dragon to lose weight during brumation, but you should still monitor their health closely. If your bearded dragon appears to be losing too much weight or shows any signs of illness, such as lethargy or difficulty breathing, you should consult with a veterinarian.

Conclusion: Brumation is a natural behavior for bearded dragons that allows them to conserve energy and survive during the winter months. As a pet owner, it's important to provide the appropriate care during this time to ensure the health and wellbeing of your bearded dragon. By providing a suitable enclosure, reducing temperature and light levels, and monitoring your bearded dragon's health, you can help your pet safely navigate this period of dormancy.