Brumation. It sounds like a high‑tech way to make coffee, and in truth, caffeine IS a good idea if you’re just learning about bearded dragon brumation. But don’t worry. Our quick guide will give you all the essentials so you can feel confident about this important time in your beardie’s life.
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What Is Bearded Dragon Brumation?
When you think of hibernation, you probably think of bears. With our beloved beardies, brumation is essentially the same thing — hibernation, but for reptiles.
This is a natural process for bearded dragons in the wild, and it happens during the winter months, when food is scarce and there’s less sunlight. They hunker down and mostly sleep. While some bearded dragons will go into a deep sleep, some will be awake but not moving around very much. Every beardie is different.
Bearded Dragon Brumation Signs
Your beardie's behavior will change a lot as they prepare for brumation. Knowing what to expect in the few weeks leading up to brumation will make it easier on you.
- More Zzzs: Sleeping more and going to bed earlier to conserve energy.
- Less Activity: Appearing lazy and significantly less active.
- Burying or Hiding: Spending more time hiding or burrowing; often on the cool side of the enclosure.
- Decreased Appetite: Eating less, then not at all. Don’t force feed. Undigested food can rot and cause serious health issues.
- Infrequent Bowel Movements: As food intake drops, so do poops. After they stop eating, aim for one last poop before full brumation.
I’m worried my pet may be ill
It’s easy to panic if you’ve never seen your beardie enter brumation. Brumation is mostly behavioral. Physical changes that signal illness include:
- Black or dark‑colored beard
- Overall change of color
- Obvious weight loss
- Tail rot
When in doubt, call the vet. Do not let your beardie enter brumation if they have a parasite or other illness.
When Do Bearded Dragons Brumate?
Winter is when bearded dragons in the wild brumate, and the same is generally true for captive bearded dragons (depending on where you live). In the northern hemisphere, this is usually December to January. Lower temperatures and fewer daylight hours influence brumation, as does instinct.
How Long Do Bearded Dragons Brumate?
Brumation can last anywhere from 1–4 months. Every pet is different. Some will never brumate, some will skip years, and some will do it annually.
Preparing for Bearded Dragon Brumation
Lighting/Temperature
Over 2–3 weeks as they show signs, gradually decrease enclosure temperature to 65–68°F and reduce lighting to around 10 hours. During complete brumation, heat lamps can be off; provide daytime light 6–8 hours to mimic day/night.
Last Poo
Make sure they take one last poop after they stop eating. Warm daily baths followed by a gentle downward abdominal massage can help.
Clean Their Enclosure
A dirty enclosure can make bearded dragons prone to respiratory and parasitic infections. Deep clean before brumation; during brumation, do spot cleans as needed. Use a non‑toxic terrarium cleaner to spray and wipe away.
What to Do During Brumation
Keep fresh water near the opening of the hide and mostly leave them alone. Don’t try to play or wake them.
What to Do When Your Beardie Wakes Up
Get Back to Routine
Return lights and heat to the normal schedule, gradually or all at once.
Meal Time
Offer light food like greens and fruit the first day or two. Then reintroduce protein with worms before moving back to regular feeders.
Bath Time
Daily baths for a few days can help with hygiene and hydration.
Deep Clean Your Bearded Dragon’s Tank
A clean habitat is key. Avoid bleach and fragranced household cleaners; they’re not reptile‑safe. Scent‑free is best.
Best Scent‑Free, Beardie‑Approved Tank Cleaner
Save time with Oxyfresh Advanced Terrarium Cleaner. It removes stubborn gunk with no scrubbing and eliminates odors with Oxygene®. Safe, non‑toxic, and fragrance‑free.
Let Oxyfresh Do Your Dirty Work
- Beardie approved: No fragrances, dyes, parabens, harsh chemicals, or bleach.
- Quick & easy: Spray and rinse for a streak‑free shine. Stuck‑on messes lift fast.
- Odor control: Non‑toxic Oxygene® breaks down cage odors and waste.
- Versatile: Works on glass, plastic, acrylic, and more.
- USA made: Trusted since 1984.
How to Clean Bearded Dragon Tank
- Remove pet and all objects
- Spray enclosure with Oxyfresh Terrarium Cleaner
- Let cleaner sit for 2–3 minutes
- Rinse with water
- Dry completely
- Return pets and clean, dry objects
For spot cleans during brumation, spray and wipe away — it’s safe and non‑toxic.
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Final Thoughts
Knowing what to expect during bearded dragon brumation can give you peace of mind. It’s a natural process and it’s good for your sweet beardie too.
Start preparations now and make it easier with the cage cleaner that does the heavy lifting: Oxyfresh Terrarium Cleaner. No scrubbing, no lingering odors, and NO harmful ingredients. You’ll love it and your beardie will too! xo
