Brumation: winter is coming for reptiles

Subject: Environment

Section: Ecosystem

Context:

An alligator observed lying still underwater with only its snout visible may not necessarily be dead; it could be undergoing brumation.

What is brumation?

Brumation is a period of dormancy in reptiles, akin to hibernation in mammals, that occurs during colder months when temperatures fall and food is scarce.
This state allows reptiles to conserve energy by significantly slowing their metabolism, enabling them to survive without food for extended periods.
During brumation, reptiles often retreat to places like underground burrows or rock crevices where temperatures are more stable.
This behaviour has been noted in various reptilian species, including box and painted turtles, snakes, and lizards, which find refuge in environments ranging from mud at the bottom of bodies of water to underground dens or caves.
Brumation is essential for reptiles to weather cold temperatures and scarce food conditions, allowing them to conserve resources until the return of warmer, more favourable conditions for feeding and reproduction.

Source: TH