Tegus, also known as giant lizards that originate from Central as well as South America. They are available for sale as pets or an invading species in those states like Georgia, Florida and South Carolina.
The care of these lizards is extremely satisfying, but it’s difficult since they require advanced maintenance and care.
It is essential to know about the different kinds of Tegus and to be able to distinguish them. Certain breeds can be more than four feet long and are abrasive. Other breeds make excellent pets and are intelligent and gentle.
Are you keen on identifying one of these gigantic lizards? Continue reading to find out details about Tegu lizards, as well as the many species and morphologies.
What Is a Tegu Lizard?
Tegu is the most common name to refer to two different families of Lizards ( Teiidae and Gymnophthalmidae) which are indigenous in Central as well as South America.
In these two families , there are more than 400 species of lizards which span the length of more than 1,000 miles. Because these lizards have an extensive range and habitats, they can be found in diverse habitats, including rainforests, savannas, semi deserts as well as lagoons, swamps and swamps. This means that they live in various habitats and can be an invasive species.
There are a variety of species that are free-ranging Black as well as White Argentine Tegus currently living in Florida. A lot of pet owners who are not aware buy an Tegu that they don’t know how to handle, and release the animal in the wild.
Tegus are often confused with Monitor lizards of the savannah because they are both large and heavy, however they aren’t closely linked. A lot of Tegus are between three and five feet long , and can be as heavy as twenty pounds!
Due to their huge size they are not able to be kept in tiny enclosures. They require lots of space and activity to keep them entertained both inside and out of their tank.
They should be spending the majority of their time inside their cages, but they is allowed to go out at least every day. In your tank, they might be inclined to swim or sunbathe. Outside, they love to run around and require supervision. They are highly smart reptiles, and they can be house-trained.
Many Tegus are easily identifiable because they sport bands of white and black patterns However, some Tegus are speckled with red, yellow, orange and green. They usually have long snouts, and long necks. They are covered in small scales, tongues that are forked, as well as five distinctive toes.
Tegus are also known to appear like they have a lot of skin with folds on the neck. They are a muscular breed with long strong tails. When you are in the wild, they can see them on the ground, in trees, or on the waters. Their unique characteristics vary based on species as well as the morph.
Dwarf, Crocodile, Desert, Sun and Four-Toed Tegus are not suitable for pets. There are many other species found in Central as well as South America, as well as those in the pet trade, which should not be considered pets.
Caiman Argentine Red, Blue and Argentine Black and White Tegus are among the most desirable pets.
Making the decision to adopt the Tegu is a major decision. They’re very intelligent and large lizards , which require plenty of space to live in and exercise. They require a lot of time and commitment which not every reptile owner could give. If, however, you’ve chosen you think a Tegu is the right choice for you, read on to discover more about the different species and what you should consider…
Types of Tegu Lizards (Tegu Species)
| Tegu | Color | Size | Rank |
|---|---|---|---|
| Albino ( morph) | White | From 4 to 5 inches | 8 |
| Argentine Black and White | Black and White | 5 feet | 1 |
| Argentine Red | Black and red | 3 . 4.5 feet | 4 |
| Blue ( morph) | Black Light blue | 5 feet | 2 |
| Caiman | Yellow, red, orange and green | 2-5 feet | 6 |
| Chacoan White Headed | The two are black and white, and the head is white heads. | Three to 4.5 feet | 3 |
| Colombian Gold | Gold and black | Between 2 and 3 inches | 5 |
| Crocodile | Red, brown-yellow along with grayGreen and red | 18 inches | 9 |
| purple ( morph) | Black and green, however, it is possible to mix different shades | 3-4 feet | 7 |
9. Crocodile
Crocodile Tegus are some of the most rare and small species. Their range of natural habitat is Colombia, Venezuela, French Guinea, Brazil and Peru.
The species doesn’t appear like a crocodile however it does have a slim body, a long tail and a the square head. Their heads are generally green-brown and the majority parts of their bodies are brown-gray , with an orange and gray tail.
Similar to crocodiles, the Tegu loves being at sea. They have legs that are short that allow them to swim. They can be found in streams or lagoons. They live close to Caiman Lizards however, they rarely interact or fight in food due to the difference in diet. Caiman Lizards are mollusks only. Crocodile species feed on arthropods crustaceans, fish and a variety of species of frogs.
The species of crocodile is not available in pet shops.
They shouldn’t keep as pets, and are not often offered to be sold.
It is extremely difficult to come across on the open landscape. In the rare event that one is seen out in nature, the species needs to be allowed to remain in the wild for as long as possible. If it happens that a Crocodile Tegu does manage to find its way into an animal trade it could be sold for up to $13,000.
You can see them cared for by highly skilled herpetologists as well as field researchers. Sometimes, they’re even housed in an zoo however they’re not suitable an option for anyone looking to get the perfect pet for a lizard.
| Appearance and Range | |
|---|---|
| Color | Red, brown-yellow and gray Black, green and red |
| Range | Colombia, Venezuela, French Guinea, Brazil, and Peru |
| Pet Friendly | No |
| Size | 18 inches |
8. Albino Tegu
Albino Tegus are not an actual species It is a Argentine Tegu-like morph. Similar to the way that herpetologists selectively breed other lizards such as bearded dragon forms They also breed Argentine Tegu morphs.
Albinos don’t have the pigmentation that is found in the wild type Argentine species. They usually have plenty of white color over their faces and may exhibit different patterns. Sometimes, they may also have grey-black bands or red spots.
There are also Ice Albino Tegu varieties that represent two morphs being crossed. This morph, called Ice and Albino Tegu has an edgier whiter skin.
Albino Tegus are not very popular in the pet industry, and are typically only owned by vets with experience. It can be as high as $3000!
| Appearance and Range | |
|---|---|
| Color | White |
| Range | Captive-bred the morph |
| Pet Friendly | Yes |
| Size | From 4 to 5 inches |
7. Purple Tegu Lizard
Purple Tegus are not an actual species of Tegu They are actually an morph, just like Albino. Albino above.
While they are discovered naturally throughout South America, it is believed that they are a mix of Blue Tegu and Red Tegu. This is the reason why they give Purple the name. However, they are not really purple!
In contrast to other morphs, such as the Albino Tegu, they are not always selectively breeding. They are not always selectively bred. Red Tegu as well as the Blue Tegu is also a natural morph discovered on the open plains.
Purple species are typically green and black.
The purple Tegu is like every other Argentine species but with a smart and friendly nature. They generally cost more due to their status as rare and can cost anywhere from $200 to $400.
| Appearance and Range | |
|---|---|
| Color | Most often, black and green however, it could also be a mixture of other hues |
| Range | Argentina, Paraguay, and Brazil |
| Pet Friendly | Yes |
| Size | 3-4 feet |
6. Caiman Tegu
Caiman Lizards ( Water Tegu) aren’t the most popular Tegu species, however they are highly sought-after as pets. The demand for them is costly and can cost anywhere from $400-$500.
They are an extremely satisfying lizard. People are awed by their vibrant colors. They usually are spotted with bright orange or red head, with green bodies.
Caimans can reach five feet tall and are among the biggest Tegu species.
In addition to being quick climbers and swimmers, they are also smart and loyal. If they are kept as pets, they should have plenty of space for swimming and climbing. If you are in nature, you’ll often see this colorful Lizard sitting on branches of trees or swimming in the ocean. They can be distinguished through their unique colors and the places they rest are not common, since not many Tegus enjoy swimming in the water like Caiman Lizards do.
A high cage with sturdy branches is ideal for their need to climb. A tiny pool of 12 inches of water should be sufficient for them to bathe in. The owner needs to dedicate a significant portion of their home to the species of lizard.
In contrast to the majority of Tegus listed here, Caiman Lizards mostly eat aquatic snails. They have extremely powerful jaws to devour this special diet. While they’re not aggressive, their owners must keep an eye on their powerful bite.
| Appearance and Range | |
|---|---|
| Color | Yellow, orange, red and green |
| Range | Ecuador, Colombia, Paraguay, Peru, and Brazil |
| Pet Friendly | Yes |
| Size | 2-5 feet |
5. Colombian Gold
Colombian Gold Tegus are a extremely small species. They are smaller than the larger Argentine species.
Their skin is their skin is a gold-brown color , with bandings of black.
As with the majority of Tegus They are a bit bulky and have large legs and bodies. In contrast to other Tegus, they are not climbers and require extra floor space in their enclosure. They require a safe enclosure that allows them to discover and play.
Tegus from Colombia are able to be kept as pets However, they aren’t as easy to care for or as affectionate as the Argentine Tegus. They tend to be more hostile than Argentines.
They are suggested for pet owners who had previously owned Tegus and have a commitment to taking care of them in a responsible manner. Colombian Golds are among the most inexpensive species and will cost approximately $100.
| Appearance and Range | |
|---|---|
| Color | Gold and black |
| Range | Colombia |
| Pet Friendly | Sometimes |
| Size | 2-to-3 feet |
4. Argentine Red Tegu
It is the Argentine Red Tegu in Argentina is predominantly red-brown in hue however, certain species may have white or black speckled skin.
Argentine Reds are one of the most popular species for pets and can cost anywhere from $300 to $400.
They are much simpler to manage than other Tegus because of their easy taking care of and their capability to be easily controlled. They are extremely gentle and smart lizards. If handled with care, training and attention they are able to be proficient to a degree.
Argentine Reds are closely related to Black as well as White Argentine ( which is also listed) However, they are less than three feet in length.
Even though they’re slightly smaller does not mean that they have to live in smaller enclosures.
Red Tegus still need plenty of space to run around and exercise. An Tegu enclosure must be at least two times the length the lizard’s body, or bigger, and include an area for water as well as an area for basking.
| Appearance and Range | |
|---|---|
| Color | Black and red |
| Range | Western Argentina, Bolivia, and Paraguay |
| Pet Friendly | Yes |
| Size | Three to 4.5 feet |
3. Chacoan White Headed
Chacoan White Headed Tegus are often referred to as the Paraguayan Black and White Tegu. They are among the northernmost species as well as being named for their white head. They’re actually born with green heads, however it turns white within the first couple of years. They usually are born with the white and black mottled skin spots, bands and spots.
In addition to their white head They look quite similar to Argentine Black and White.
Argentine Tegus originate from Argentina and then spread to neighboring countries. The Chacoan comes from Paraguay and expanded its range toinclude: Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay and Bolivia.
They are not only similar to Argentines in size and colors and appearance, but they’re also extremely similar in temperament and treatment. They also make great first Tegu and are priced at $200.
| Appearance and Range | |
|---|---|
| Color | The two are black and white, and the head is white heads. |
| Range | Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay, Paraguay, and Bolivia |
| Pet Friendly | Yes |
| Size | Three to 4.5 feet |
2. Blue Tegu
It is Blue is the final one of Black as well as White Argentine transformations that we have that we have listed.
It is the light blue tint which gives them a unique appearance and their name. The color is typically found on mature males. Their general color is dark blue and black however, it could change from albino to blue to a high-white color morph.
A lot of Blue Tegus also have a particular “singe mark” on their noses. The black mark gives them the impression that their noses are smacked from a burning flame.
Their attention and understanding is similar to the majority of Argentine Tegus, but they generally do not grow any more than three feet.
If you’re in search of an authentic Argentine Tegu the Blue model could be right suitable, however they’re a little higher at between $250 and $600.
| Appearance and Range | |
|---|---|
| Color | Black as well as light blue |
| Range | Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay |
| Pet Friendly | Yes |
| Size | 3 feet |
1. Argentine Black & White Tegu
Argentine Black and Whites are the most sought-after Tegu pet.
Black and white Tegus are the largest of them all, and are called Argentine Giants. Also, they are the most gentle. When handled with gentleness and frequently, they can be gentle giants. However, if handled improperly they may become aggressive and possess an imposing bite.
Argentine Black and White Tegus have distinctively bead-like scales. They got their name because of the white and black bands on their bodies as well as numerous speckles of white and black. They are characterized by their large bodies and tails, tiny eyes, as well as a forked tongue.
If you’re new to Tegus and you have made a decision on the breed is a good choice . They can be purchased at prices ranging from $200 to $550.
If they are set up correctly and have regular maintenance, they can be healthy for between 15 and 20 years.
| Appearance and Range | |
|---|---|
| Color | Black and White |
| Range | Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay |
| Pet Friendly | Yes |
| Size | 5 feet |
Summary
If you’ve never had an Tegu before, then a species called Argentine is the most suitable option for you.
Argentine Tegus have the distinction of being the biggest of them all, however they tend to be the least gentle and the most suitable option for new owners. It doesn’t matter if it’s an Argentine Tegus in a Red or a Black and white, Argentine Tegus can be excellent pets when they are given an enormous tank and the right treatment.
If you’re an skilled keeper, you might think about an Colombian Tegu. Colombian species can be fascinating and distinctive reptiles However, they can be more aggressive, and therefore require the expertise of a handler.
In the end, if you’re searching for a morph you might want to think about one of the following: Blue, Purple, or Albino. These Tegus are certain to be noticed with their stunning patterns and colors.
What types of Tegu lizards do you choose as a pet? It will be a faithful pet for many years to be. Do you have pets Tegu? Let us know below about your experiences.
