ScienceAugust 22, 2026
brumate
BROO-mayt
Definition
To enter a state of dormancy or inactivity during the winter months, similar to hibernation but specific to ectothermic animals like reptiles.
Etymology
The term is derived from the Latin 'bruma', meaning 'winter' or 'shortest day', and was coined in the mid-20th century to describe the unique winter dormancy cycle of reptiles.
In the news
The article contrasts social garter snakes, which hibernate in communal dens, with solitary ball pythons, noting that the latter do not brumate, which likely influences their cognitive needs for self-recognition.
In 2024, eastern garter snakes passed a scent-based self-recognition test: 24 snakes investigated their own altered scent, suggesting self-recognition
Read the full article ↗The Economic Times