The Red Tegu is a large bulky lizard from western Argentina that reaches between 3-5ft. They are one of the friendliest Tegu species to own and love a varied diet of fresh fruit, veg, insects and meat.
| Origin | Western Argentina, Bolivia and Paraguay |
|---|---|
| Environment | Tropical |
| Adults Size | 3 - 5ft |
| Suitability | Experienced |
| Lifespan | Up to 20 years |
| Temperament | Docile with handling |
Red Tegus are robust lizards, typically displaying a striking red coloration that intensifies with age. Their bodies are covered in small, bead-like scales, with a pattern of black stripes amd blotches across their backs and tails. Juveniles often have a more muted coloration, which becomes more vibrant as they mature. The head is broad and muscular, with a pronounced jawline and a slightly pointed snout. Their eyes are relatively small but keen, and they have a long, forked tongue that they flick out frequently to sense their environment using the Jacobson’s organ. Adult Red Tegus can reach lengths of 3 to 4.5 feet, with males generally being larger and more robust than females.
Red Tegus are native to South America, primarily found in Argentina, Paraguay, and Brazil. They inhabit a variety of environments, including tropical rainforests, savannas, and semi-arid regions. In their natural habitat, Red Tegus are known to dig burrows to escape the heat and to find shelter. They are also excellent swimmers and can often be found near water sources. The climate in their native range includes hot, humid summers and cooler, drier winters, which influences their behavior and activity patterns throughout the year.
Red Tegus, like all large lizards, require significant space, time, and dedication to ensure they thrive in captivity. Before deciding to keep a Red Tegu, it’s crucial to consider whether you can meet their needs throughout their lifespan, which can be 20+ years. They are not ideal pets for families with young children and they can take a lot of work to tame down. Even the most docile Tegu can mistake fingers for food, potentially causing injury with their sharp teeth. It’s our responsibility to ensure potential owners are well-informed about the commitment involved in keeping a Red Tegu.
Red Tegus are primarily terrestrial and need a spacious enclosure. For an adult, the minimum recommended floor space is 2.4 x 1.2 x 1.2 meters (8 x 4 x 4 feet). For juveniles up to 30 cm long, a 120 x 60 x 60 cm (4 x 2 x 2 feet) vivarium is the minimum. Red Tegus are highly intelligent and benefit from environmental enrichment, they enjoy climbing if given the opportunity, so adding rocks, cork bark, and branches to create multiple levels, hiding spots, and basking areas will enrich their environment.
A sand/soil mix is ideal for Red Tegus, maintained at around 60-80% humidity. The substrate should be as deep as possible—at least 45 cm (18 inches) for adults—to allow for burrowing. Juveniles should have a substrate depth as deep as they are long. Red Tegus also enjoy soaking in water, so providing a large dish or pool is essential for hydration and aiding in bowel movements.
Proper heating is vital for Red Tegus, as they originate from warm climates. A temperature gradient is necessary, with a cool end around 25°C, surface temperatures averaging 32-38°C, and a basking spot between 54-65°C. This can be achieved using a combination of basking bulbs, Deep Heat Projectors, or Halogens, all controlled by thermostats. Thermostats are essential, ensuring the temperature is consistent and avoiding the risk of over or under heating.
UVB lighting is essential for Red Tegus to synthesize vitamin D3 and absorb calcium. They require a Ferguson Zone of 4, which ensures they receive adequate UVB exposure to maintain their health and regulate their circadian rhythms.
In their natural habitat, Red Tegus are opportunistic feeders, eating whatever is available. However, in captivity, it’s crucial to provide a balanced diet to prevent health issues such as obesity. Red Tegus are omnivorous and require a varied diet. In the wild, they consume a mix of fruits, vegetables, insects, small mammals, and carrion. In captivity, their diet should include a balance of protein (60-70%) and plant matter (30-40%). Suitable protein sources include insects, rodents, and lean meats, while fruits and vegetables should be offered regularly.
For juvenile Red Tegus, it’s recommended to offer food daily, focusing on high-protein items like insects (crickets, mealworms, and earthworms) and occasional small rodents. As they grow, their diet should be adjusted to include more plant matter. Adult Red Tegus should be fed 2-3 times a week.
To prevent boredom and encourage natural behaviors, make feeding time interactive. For example, you can hide food in paper bags or use tongs to make them chase their prey. This not only stimulates their minds but also provides necessary exercise.
Obesity is a common issue in captive Red Tegus due to overfeeding and lack of exercise. It’s essential to monitor their weight and adjust their diet accordingly. Encourage physical activity by allowing them to explore outside their enclosure, harness training from a young age means they can be taken outside on warm sunny days in the summer.
To ensure your Red Tegu receives all necessary nutrients, use a high-quality dusting powder on live feeds. Alternate between calcium and vitamin powders according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. This helps prevent deficiencies and supports overall health.
By providing the right environment, diet, and care, you can ensure your Red Tegu lives a healthy and fulfilling life. Remember, keeping a Red Tegu is a long-term commitment that requires dedication and responsibility.
