Estivation

[jjmorton13]

I was just curious if everyone estivates their pyxies, or allows them to estivate if they show interest. Its about that time of year when temperatures are cooling down. I do live in Florida, US, so that is a relative statement. I've had my frog (a male) since January, and he is 6-7in (16-18 cm) SVL. He hasn't shown any interest in not eating, and he didn't estivate, or wasn't allow to, last year at this time when he was still at the reptile store. Your opinions and advice are appreciated!

[pixiefrogman]

Personally I don't estivate my frogs. But their appetite does decrease.

[onedge30]

Last year, I did not allow them to aestivate. Now, this year, yes! I am going to prepare them and tuck them into bed for 4+ months.

This is due to my planned breeding in the spring. Central Florida, here.

[Kevin1]

The proper term for ectotherm inactivity in winter is brumation. I feel they should be allowed to do what they feel at least. I brumate my frogs in winter. It's not hard to do just give them lots of substrate reduce temps and/or shut off lights and allow temps to drop. That's if you want them to brumate. I personally feel it's good for the health of the frog to allow them a period of rest in the winter.

[jaguilar15]

Does the decrease in eating apply to young babies too? or just matured pixies

[pixiefrogman]

That's right Kevin, I always mix up the two. And I'm pretty sure there isn't much of an effect on babies because my big male has slowed down his feeding but my baby is eating more than ever!