Brumation in Bearded Dragons

Brumation is a fascinating natural phenomenon seen in reptiles like bearded dragons where they enter a dormant state similar to hibernation in mammals. As responsible bearded dragon owners, it’s crucial we understand brumation so we can properly care for our reptilian friends during this period. In this article, we’ll explore what exactly brumation is, what causes it, signs to look out for, and how to ensure your bearded dragon in brumation.

What is Brumation?

Brumation refers to a period of dormancy and reduced activity levels in cold-blooded reptiles during colder seasons. It’s similar to hibernation in mammals but differs in that reptiles can still wake to drink water and don’t fully shut down their metabolic processes.

For bearded dragons, brumation typically occurs during the winter months when temperatures drop and daylight hours decrease. Their bodies instinctively know it’s time to conserve energy due to the harsher conditions, so they start sleeping more, eating less, and being overall less active.

What Causes Brumation in Bearded Dragons?

There are two key factors that trigger brumation in bearded dragons:

Decreasing Daylight Hours

Bearded dragons are extremely sensitive to light and darkness. In the wild, shorter daylight hours in the winter signal it’s time to brumate. We can replicate this light change in captivity by slowly reducing the number of hours we keep lights on each day.

Lower Ambient Temperatures

Colder ambient temperatures, dropping into the 60s F, also provide an important signal for brumation. Gradual temperature reductions should mimic natural seasonal drops.

Signs Your Bearded Dragon is Brumating

Here are some common signs that your bearded dragon is starting brumation:

• Increased periods of sleeping and lethargy
• Loss of appetite and eating less frequently
• Weight loss (should not exceed 10% of body weight)
• Less interest in social interaction and handling
• Darker beard coloring
• Long soakings in the water dish
• Infrequent bowel movements

Caring for a Bearded Dragon in Brumation

Brumation is a normal, healthy cycle for bearded dragons but they still require special care during this time:

• Adjust temperatures: Slowly decrease ambient and basking temperatures by around 10-15°F to mimic natural drops. Never let temps fall dangerously low.
• Reduce photoperiod: Cut back daylight hours to 8-10 hours a day. Use a timer to regulate the lighting schedule.
• Provide water: Check water dish daily, replace with fresh water. Consider a drip system to keep water available.
• Offer food periodically: Try every 10-14 days. Avoid force feeding. Remove uneaten insects after 15 mins.
• Monitor weight: Weigh regularly. Seek vet advice if weight loss exceeds 10%. Rehydrate with fluids if needed.
• Check appearance: Watch for signs of illness e.g. discharge, labored breathing, lethargy. Continue observing handling, soaking, grooming as needed.

With attentive care tailored to their brumation state, bearded dragons can pass through this period safely and return to normal in the springtime as days lengthen and temperatures rise. It’s an incredible adaptation that helps them thrive seasonally!

Conclusion

Brumation is a natural semi-hibernative state where bearded dragons become dormant and minimize activity levels in winter. Shorter daylight hours and colder ambient temperatures trigger their instinct to brumate. Signs like increased sleeping, loss of appetite and lethargy indicate brumation’s onset. With proper monitoring and adjusted care, like temperature regulation, photoperiod reduction and weight management, bearded dragon owners can ensure their pets stay healthy through their winter dormancy. Brumation reveals the amazing adaptive abilities of these reptiles!

FAQs About Bearded Dragon in Brumation