🦎 General Info


The Tegu (Salvator spp. and Tupinambis spp.) is a large, intelligent, and powerful lizard native to South America, found in countries such as Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Colombia. The most commonly kept species are the Argentine Black and White Tegu (Salvator merianae), Red Tegu (Salvator rufescens), and the Colombian (Gold) Tegu (Tupinambis teguixin).


Tegus are known for their dog-like intelligence, curiosity, and ability to bond with their keepers. Adults typically reach 3.5–5 feet in total length, including the tail, and can weigh between 10–20 pounds. Males tend to grow larger and develop wider heads with pronounced jowls, while females stay smaller and more streamlined.


These reptiles are diurnal, highly active, and require a large, enriching environment. With consistent, gentle handling, tegus can become remarkably tame and even enjoy interaction with their owners.


Enclosure


  • Size: Minimum 8 ft x 4 ft x 4 ft for one adult; larger is always better as tegus are very active and need ample room to explore and dig. Juveniles can start in a 4 ft x 2 ft x 2 ft, but they will quickly outgrow it.


  • Material: PVC or sealed wood vivarium's are preferred for retaining heat and humidity. Glass enclosures can be used for juveniles but are less suitable for full-grown adults due to their size and humidity needs.


  • Substrate: A deep, moisture-holding substrate such as a soil/sand/cypress mulch mix or topsoil and coconut fiber blend. Provide 12–18 inches of depth to allow burrowing and humidity retention.


  • Décor: Include large hides, logs, rocks, and branches for climbing and basking. Tegus appreciate a humid hide filled with damp moss to aid shedding. Make sure all décor is sturdy, as adult tegus are strong and can easily shift lightweight items.


Temperature & Lighting


  • Basking Spot: 105–115°F


  • Ambient Temperature: 80–90°F


  • Night Temperature: Can safely drop to 70–75°F


  • UVB Lighting: UVB light is essential for proper calcium metabolism and bone health. Use a T5 HO 10–12% UVB tube or equivalent, covering at least half the enclosure’s length. Replace bulbs every 6–12 months per manufacturer’s instructions. Lack of UVB will cause Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD), which leads to permanent deformities or death.


  • Day/night Cycle: 12–14 hours of light daily. Tegus are diurnal, meaning they are most active during the daytime.


Humidity & Water


  • Humidity: 60–80%. Provide a humid hide with damp moss during shedding, and mist the enclosure as needed to maintain humidity. Using a deep substrate and a large water dish helps stabilize moisture levels.

  • Water: Offer a large, shallow water tub big enough for the tegu to soak in. Tegus love to bathe and may use their water dish for both soaking and drinking, so change the water daily and keep it clean to prevent bacteria buildup.


Diet


  • Type: Omnivorous — tegus eat a balanced diet of animal protein, fruits, and vegetables.

  • Staple Foods:

  • Protein sources: Crickets, roaches, earthworms, lean meats (unseasoned chicken, turkey, or fish), eggs, and occasional rodents.

  • Fruits: Berries, papaya, mango, banana, figs, melon, and other soft fruits.

  • Vegetables: Dark leafy greens (collard, mustard, turnip, dandelion), squash, zucchini, sweet potato, and green beans.

  • Supplements:


  • Calcium powder: 3–4 times per week.

  • Multivitamin: 1–2 times per week.

  • Calcium with D3: Once a week if your UVB output is low, tooD3 vitamin can lead to toxicity so if they are getting enough UVB supplement D3 is not needed.

  • Occasional Treats: Snails, quail eggs, or pinky mice can be offered sparingly. Pinkies and other fatty items should not be fed too often, as overfeeding can lead to obesity and health problems.


Behavior & Handling


  • Temperament: Tegus are highly intelligent and curious, and with patience can become very tame and handleable. Juveniles may be nervous or defensive at first, but adults often mellow out and can even enjoy attention and gentle petting. Males may show increased territorial behavior during breeding season.


  • Handling: Begin slowly—allow your tegu to get used to your presence before attempting direct contact. Once comfortable, support their body fully when lifting. Regular, calm handling builds trust, and many tegus will eventually tolerate or even enjoy being held.


  • Enrichment: Provide digging opportunities, climbing structures, and rearrange enclosure décor to encourage exploration. Hiding food around the enclosure or allowing supervised free-roam time in a safe area helps stimulate their active, inquisitive nature.


Health & Lifespan


  • Lifespan: 15–20 years in captivity with proper care; some individuals may live even longer.


  • Common Health Issues:

  • Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD): Caused by insufficient UVB or calcium deficiency.

  • Respiratory Infections: Can develop from low temperatures or excessive humidity.

  • Obesity: Overfeeding rodents, eggs, or fatty foods can lead to health issues—maintain a balanced diet and provide exercise.

  • Parasites: Keep the enclosure clean and watch for signs such as lethargy, weight loss, or visible mites.

  • Retained Shed: Often caused by low humidity; ensure regular soaking and a proper humid hide.

Final Note: Tegus are among the most rewarding and interactive reptiles to keep. Their intelligence and personality make them more like reptilian companions than simple display animals. With the right care, spacious housing, a balanced diet, and consistent handling, your tegu can live a long, healthy, and engaging life by your side.