What Happens When a Lizard Gets Too Cold: Survival in the Cold
Reptiles, like lizards, are ectothermic, meaning they rely on external sources to regulate their body temperature. This unique characteristic can be both an advantage and a challenge, especially during colder weather. When a lizard becomes too cold, its body undergoes various physiological changes that can significantly affect its health and survival.
Understanding Cold and Its Impact on Lizards
The ability of a lizard to survive in cold conditions is highly dependent on the species and the specific temperature it is exposed to. Lizards, unlike mammals, do not have an internal mechanism to generate and maintain a constant body temperature. Therefore, they are at the mercy of their environment. When the ambient temperature drops, it affects their blood flow, metabolism, and overall health.
Thick Blood and Slowed Movement
When a lizard is exposed to cold temperatures, its blood thickens and flows more slowly, leading to a decrease in its ability to move. This slowdown can be so severe that the lizard may become completely immobile, a condition often referred to as "cold stupor." The lizard is essentially in a state where it is unable to seek warmth on its own and must wait for the temperature to rise.
Energetic and Health Decline
Without sufficient heat, lizards become sluggish and lack the energy needed to carry out daily activities and processes. Their main source of energy is derived from the heat they absorb from their environment. If they remain cold for a prolonged period, they can become severely ill and even die.
Reptile Species and Their Cold Tolerance
The level of cold tolerance varies among different lizard species. For example, some ground reptiles may hibernate underground during extremely cold winters, while others may stay active even in colder temperatures as long as they have a suitable heat source. However, it's crucial for pet owners to know each lizard's optimal body temperature range to ensure their well-being.
Protecting Lizards from the Cold
To keep pet lizards healthy, it is essential to provide them with the appropriate temperature range. Many lizards, such as leopard geckos, require a thermoregulatory environment where they can bask in a warm spot and retreat to a cooler spot if needed. Ensuring that their environment stays within their optimal temperature range (usually around 80-90°F) can prevent health issues and ensure their vitality.
Case Study: Leopards Geckos
Leopard geckos, for instance, have an optimal operating temperature of approximately 85°F. If they are exposed to temperatures between 50-60°F for a day or two, they may slow down their activity and metabolic rate, but they can usually recover when the temperature returns to normal. However, if they are exposed to temperatures between 35-40°F for several weeks, they are at risk of serious health issues such as gastroenteritis and may even die.
Conclusion
Lizards, like any other living organisms, require specific environmental conditions to thrive. When the temperature drops too low, it can lead to severe health problems and, in extreme cases, death. As pet owners or keepers, it is our responsibility to ensure that the lizards we care for remain within their optimal temperature range. Understanding and implementing the necessary measures can significantly improve their health and longevity.