If you’re a bearded dragon owner, you’ve likely noticed a strange change in your pet’s behavior during certain seasons. Maybe they’ve become lethargic, stopped eating, or are hiding in dark corners of their enclosure. Don’t panic—what you’re witnessing might be beared dragon brumation, a natural and completely normal process for bearded dragons.
But what exactly is brumation? Is it the same as hibernation? What should you do to care for your dragon during this period? If you’re wondering about any of these questions, you’ve come to the right place.
Brumation is a phase many bearded dragons go through during the cooler months, much like how some animals hibernate. Understanding this process is key to ensuring your pet stays healthy and well cared for. So, let’s dive into the ultimate guide on brumation, from recognizing the signs to providing the best care for your bearded dragon during this time.
What is Bearded Dragon Brumation?
Brumation is a natural process that occurs in reptiles like bearded dragons, where they enter a state of reduced activity during colder months. It is often compared to hibernation in mammals, but brumation is not exactly the same. During brumation, your bearded dragon’s metabolic rate slows down, and they may sleep for longer periods, eat less, or stop eating altogether.
Unlike hibernation, which is triggered by the cold in some mammals, brumation in reptiles is influenced by the shortening of daylight hours and cooler temperatures. This process allows your dragon to conserve energy during a time when food might be less available in the wild.
Why Do Bearded Dragons Brumate?
In the wild, bearded dragons experience cooler temperatures and lower food availability during the winter months. As cold-blooded animals, they cannot regulate their body temperature as mammals can, so brumation helps them survive until the warmer months return. While they brumate, bearded dragons conserve energy, avoid unnecessary activity, and rest until the environment warms up again.
When Does Brumation Happen?
Brumation typically happens during the colder months of the year. Depending on where you live, your bearded dragon might begin the process in late fall (October or November) and end it in early spring (March or April). The exact timing varies based on your bearded dragon’s age, environmental conditions, and individual needs.
In captivity, brumation can also be influenced by changes in the lighting and temperature of their enclosure, so it’s important to keep track of these factors to help your bearded dragon go through brumation in a healthy way.
Recognizing the Signs of Brumation in Bearded Dragons
Physical and Behavioral Signs
The signs of brumation are quite distinct and easy to recognize once you know what to look for. Here are the most common indicators:
| Sign | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Reduced Activity | Your bearded dragon will become less active, spending most of their time resting or hiding. They might not bask as much and could be less interested in exploring their enclosure. |
| Decreased Appetite | Brumating bearded dragons often eat very little or completely stop eating. This is normal, as their metabolism slows down. |
| Increased Sleep | Your dragon may sleep much more than usual. They will often retreat to their hide spot and rest for extended periods. |
| Hiding Behavior | Bearded dragons may seek darker, cooler places to rest. They might hide under rocks, logs, or in burrowed areas, mimicking their natural habitat during colder months. |
Duration of Brumation
Brumation can last anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on the age and health of the bearded dragon. Adult bearded dragons typically brumate for 1-3 months, whereas younger dragons may not brumate at all or may have a shorter brumation period.
Signs of Illness vs. Brumation
It can be tricky to differentiate between brumation and illness, especially if you’ve never experienced it before. While brumating, your bearded dragon will still show some interest in their environment, though they may be slower to respond.
If your bearded dragon is completely lethargic, refusing to drink water, or showing other signs of illness like runny stools or swelling, this may indicate a health problem. In such cases, it’s best to consult a reptile vet for an assessment.
How to Care for Your Bearded Dragon During Brumation
Maintaining Proper Habitat Conditions
During brumation, it’s important to maintain a stable and comfortable environment for your bearded dragon. This includes managing temperature and humidity levels, as these can affect your dragon’s ability to brumate properly.
| Condition | Recommended Range |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 60-70°F (15-21°C) for cooler brumation; no lower than 50°F (10°C) |
| Humidity | 30-40%, similar to typical desert conditions |
| Light Cycle | Gradually reduce light exposure to simulate shorter days (12-14 hours of light) |
Lighting and Heating Adjustments
As the days get shorter, you should gradually decrease the light exposure in your dragon’s tank. Bearded dragons rely on their circadian rhythm to trigger brumation, so simulating the natural seasonal changes is key. Reduce the light cycle to about 10-12 hours of light each day.
If your dragon is still eating or active, you might need to adjust the temperatures to encourage them to enter brumation. Lowering the temperature of the tank can help signal to your bearded dragon that it’s time for brumation, but don’t go too low, as extreme cold can be dangerous.
Monitoring Health During Brumation
Even though your bearded dragon will be sleeping most of the time, it’s essential to check on them regularly to make sure they stay healthy. Weigh them before brumation and keep track of their weight throughout the process. A slight decrease in weight is normal, but if your dragon loses a significant amount, it could indicate dehydration or other health issues.
Feeding and Hydration During Brumation
While brumating, many bearded dragons will refuse food. This is completely normal, as their metabolism slows down. However, it’s still a good idea to offer food occasionally, especially if your dragon shows any interest. You can offer soft, easy-to-digest foods like leafy greens, insects, or fruits in small amounts.
It’s important not to force-feed them during brumation, as doing so can cause digestive problems.
Hydration Tips
Even though your bearded dragon might not be eating, you must still ensure they have access to clean water at all times. Offer water in a shallow dish and mist the tank occasionally to maintain hydration. You can also gently bathe your dragon once a week to keep them hydrated, especially if they’re not drinking.
Troubleshooting Common Brumation Concerns
If your bearded dragon isn’t entering brumation as expected, it could be due to a few factors:
- Temperature and Lighting: If the enclosure is too warm or the light cycle hasn’t been adjusted, your dragon might not recognize the change in seasons.
- Health Issues: If your dragon is too stressed, underweight, or has health problems, they might not enter brumation.
- Age: Younger bearded dragons often don’t brumate, so don’t worry if your baby bearded dragon doesn’t show signs of brumation.
Is Brumation Bad for My Bearded Dragon?
Brumation is a natural process and is usually beneficial for your bearded dragon’s health. However, if your dragon is showing signs of illness or refuses to drink for extended periods, it’s important to consult a vet. Brumation should not cause long-term health issues as long as your dragon is hydrated and well-monitored.
Bearded Dragon Brumation and Baby Dragons
Young bearded dragons typically don’t brumate. If you have a baby dragon, it’s more likely that they will continue to be active through the cooler months. However, ensure that the temperature in their enclosure is appropriate, as they might still need warmer conditions than adults.
Health Concerns Related to Brumation
During brumation, the most common health concerns include:
- Dehydration: Your dragon may not drink as much, leading to dehydration. Bathing and offering water regularly can help.
- Malnutrition: If your dragon is not eating during brumation, it’s important to ensure they are well-fed before brumation begins.
- Respiratory Infections: Keeping the enclosure dry and free of drafts is important to avoid respiratory infections.
When to Visit the Vet
If your bearded dragon is not waking up after several weeks of brumation, or if they show signs of illness such as rapid weight loss, vomiting, or unusual behavior, it’s time to visit a reptile vet.
FAQs
1. How long does brumation last in bearded dragons?
Brumation typically lasts between 1-3 months for adults. Younger dragons might not brumate at all.
2. Is it normal for my bearded dragon to stop eating during brumation?
Yes, it’s normal for a bearded dragon to eat very little or stop eating entirely during brumation.
3. What temperature should my bearded dragon’s enclosure be during brumation?
The enclosure temperature should be between 60-70°F (15-21°C) during brumation, with no lower than 50°F (10°C).
Conclusion
Bearded Dragon Brumation is a natural and necessary process for bearded dragons, and as a pet owner, it’s important to understand how to manage it properly. By recognizing the signs, adjusting your dragon’s habitat, and monitoring their health, you can ensure they go through brumation safely.
If in doubt, always seek advice from a reptile vet to ensure your dragon stays happy and healthy through this restful period.