Brumation Guide

Brumation is a natural slowdown period similar to hibernation. Many bearded dragons, especially adults, will enter brumation during the cooler months in Australia. Knowing what’s normal and how to support them is key to keeping your dragon healthy.

❄️ What is Brumation?

A seasonal dormancy where dragons eat less (or stop eating), sleep more, and become less active.
Triggered by shorter daylight hours, cooler temps, and internal seasonal rhythms.
Can last anywhere from 2 weeks to 3 months, depending on the dragon.

🕰️ When Does It Happen?

In Australia: typically late autumn through winter (May–August).
Not all dragons brumate every year — some skip it entirely.

⚠️ Signs Your Dragon is Brumating

Sleeps for long periods, sometimes days at a time.
Hides in cool, dark spots.
Eats little or no food.
Poops less often.
Looks healthy otherwise — bright eyes when awake, no weight loss beyond normal.

✅ How to Support Brumation

Provide a safe hide (cave, log, or burrow area).
Keep enclosure temps stable (basking 35–38 °C, cool end 25–28 °C).
Maintain UVB lighting cycle.
Offer food occasionally, but don’t stress if they refuse.
Always keep fresh water available.

🚫 When to Seek a Vet

If your dragon loses significant weight.
If eyes look sunken or skin appears wrinkled.
If there’s discharge from nose or mouth.
If they stop brumating but won’t return to eating.

🦎 Baby Dragons and Brumation

Under 12 months, dragons shouldn’t fully brumate.
Babies may show mild slow-downs, but long periods without eating can stunt growth — keep basking temps and UVB strong, and encourage feeding.

💡 Fun Fact

In the wild, dragons use brumation to survive winter when food is scarce. In captivity, even with food and heat provided, many still follow this ancient instinct.

Final Word

Brumation is usually nothing to worry about. It’s a natural part of dragon life. The key is to distinguish between healthy brumation and illness — watch weight, hydration, and overall condition.

🛡️ BAYNTONS REPTILES
Built by Bloodlines.