Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I recently got my first Beardie from a local rescue. It is about 14 inches long and was doing very well: very active, alert, eating both insects and veggies. For the past day or so he has hardly moved is not basking (near the light, but not up on the basking spots) with his eyes closed and eating very little. This sounds like brumation, but since I am new to this (only had snakes before) need some advice. I don't want to assume, and have something serious wrong with him! TIA

It is very hard to give you advise based on what little information you listed.

A 14 inch dragon is still pretty small I am assuming. At this size it is better to post weight in grams rather than length. If he/she is young then his weight may only be in the upper 100 gram range which is really too small for him to safely brumate.

I would recommend that you see an experienced reptile vet and have a fecal done. It's important that he is not overloaded with parasites prior to brumation. A vet can also render an opinion as to his overall health. I would also double check your temps. The basking spot should have a surface temp. of 105-115 and an ambient (air) temp. of 88-92. The cool side should be as cool as possible down to about 70.

A 14" dragon should be in an enclosure no smaller than a 30 or 40 gallon breeder (36" long by 18" deep)