Lights Necessary During Brumation?

[ReptileAddiction]

Hello, I have a bearded dragon that is a few years old. He brumates for a good 3 months without eating or anything the whole time. I am going on a trip for about a week for the holidays. I am obviously not going to have anyone feed him or anything so is it ok to just turn the lights off completely? I know he will stay brumating if it is not warm. I know some people who let their dragons brumate outside the cage. I do not want the lights on for safety purposes. I can keep the whole house above 65-70 degrees. If I leave the lights on I will have someone come every few days to make sure they do not burn out but I do not want him to come out of brumation while I am gone. Thanks!

 

[Drache613]

Hello,

Leaving the lights off will be fine, since you will be leaving the house a comfortable temperature.
Since he has been brumating, he should be fine while you are gone. If he hasn't shown any signs of coming out of brumation, definitely leave the lights off.

Tracie

 

[ReptileAddiction]

Thank you! I know from last year that he will not come out of brumation in less than perfect condition because last year I was gone and his lights burned out. The lizard sitters changed his bulbs but when I got back I failed to realize that the bulb I had on hand was keeping the cage much too cold. I didn't realize this till he had been in brumation at least a month longer than usual...

 

[Drache613]

Hello,

You are welcome.
Well, that is true, having it cooler during that time will definitely encourage lethargic behavior & or brumation which is perfectly fine. As long as he is healthy he will be happy sleeping for a little while.

Have a great trip.

Tracie