Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I was wondering how many AWD keepers hibernate their animals and what technique they use (temps, length of time, containers, etc.)? I know from reading the literature from Agama International and other sources that a hibernation period is necessary to induce breeding, but is it necessary for the long term health of the animals? I do not plan on attempting this with my trio of babies I just received, but may do it next year when they have some more size to them. Any thoughts would be appreciated. Thanks,

Chuck H.

Overwintering has many benefits besides breeding, studies have shown, although, not with AWD's directly, that overwinter herps adds to their life span. The dormancy period allow herps to clean there systems, over come parasites, and triggers new stem cells to be released into their organs. This of course applies to herps that brumate naturally. Lower temps, and lighting and reduce or eliminate feeding for three month of the year does the trick.