Most people are aware that many reptiles around the world become less active during the winter months, but just what is it they do to survive the cold?
Most reptile enthusiasts will tell you that reptiles go into burmation over winter, while members of the general public are likely to say that reptiles hibernate over winter, so what’s the difference with brumation vs hibernation?
Firstly hibernation and brumation are both essentially a state of reduced activity, in response to reduced daylight hours and lower temperatures
A hibernating animal however typically remains asleep for the duration of winter and doesn’t drink water while in hibernation. A brumating animal however will generally surface on warm days to bask and take in water
An interesting point however is that the term brumation was only coined in the mid 1960s and previously all states of winter dormancy where simply refered to as hibernation
So do reptiles hibernate in winter? it really depends who you ask!

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