Do you have a backyard and want to know what kind of animal you can put in it? Well, look no further than the red tegu lizard! These lizards make great pets for beginners because they are relatively easy to care for. In this article, we will provide you with all the information you need to know about red tegu lizards, from their diet to their behavior. We will also discuss the pros and cons of owning a red tegu lizard as a pet. So, whether you are just curious about these animals or are thinking of adding one to your family, keep reading!
What Is Red Tegu Lizard?
The red tegu lizard is a large, South American lizard that is related to the iguana. These animals can grow up to four feet in length and typically weigh around five pounds. Red tegus have long tails, powerful jaws, and sharp claws. They are usually a reddish-brown color with broken white stripes, but can also be black or green.
See More: Everything To Know About The Tegu Lizard
Red tegu lizards are mostly herbivorous, but will also eat small animals if they are available. They typically eat fruits, vegetables, insects, and other small creatures. They require a lot of vitamins and minerals in their diet, so it is important to provide them with a variety of healthy foods.
Argentine Red Tegu Lizard
The Argentine red tegu lizard is the most common type of red tegu lizard kept as a pet. These lizards are native to Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay. They thrive in hot climates and prefer to live in areas with lots of vegetation.
Appearance Of Red Tegu Lizard
Red tegu lizards are usually a reddish-brown color, but they can also be black or typically brownish green. They have long tails and powerful jaws, and their bodies are covered in scales. These animals typically grow to be four feet in length and five pounds in weight. They develop red coloration as they mature; males are usually brighter than females.
See More: The Ultimate Tegu Diet Guide: Food & Feeding Schedule
Red tegu lizards are sexually dimorphic, meaning that males and females look different from each other. Males usually have brighter coloring than females, and they also have larger heads.
Red tegu lizards are ectothermic, meaning that they rely on their environment to regulate their body temperature. They are most active during the day when it is warmest.
Feeding Your Red Tegu
Red tegu lizards are mostly herbivorous, but they will also eat small animals including small to medium rodents birds, many insects, and any dead animal they can scavenge. They typically eat fruits, vegetables, insects, and other small creatures. They require a lot of vitamins and minerals in their diet, so it is important to provide them with a variety of plant and animal matter.
Some good fruits and vegetables for red tegu lizards include:
- Apples
- Bananas
- Berries
- Carrots
- Collard greens
- Kale
- Sweet potatoes
- Squash
- Zucchini
See More: Does A Tegu Lizard Bite?
Some good sources of protein for red tegu lizards include:
- Cooked chicken
- Cooked turkey
- Crickets
- Earthworms
- Mealworms
- Pinkie mice
Red tegu lizards should also be given a vitamin and mineral supplement every day to ensure that they are getting all the nutrients they need.
Keeping Your Red Tegu Healthy
Red tegu lizards require a lot of water to stay healthy, so it is important to provide them with a water dish that is big enough to soak in. They should also be given a bath once or twice a week. It is also important to keep your red tegu’s environment clean. Be sure to change the water and food dishes daily and clean the cage weekly.
See More: Blue Tegu Lizard: A Beginner’s Guide
Health Problems In Red Tegu Lizards
Red tegu lizards are prone to several health problems, so it is important to take them to the vet for regular check-ups. Some of the most common health problems include:
- Bacterial infections
- Fungal infections
- Parasites
- Respiratory infections
- Skin infections
- Ticks
- Vitamin and mineral deficiencies
If you think your red tegu lizard is sick, be sure to take them to the vet right away.
Caring For Your Red Tegu Lizard
Red tegu lizards require a large cage that is at least four feet long, four feet wide, and six feet tall. The cage should be made of sturdy materials such as glass or metal and should have a tight-fitting lid. The cage should also be equipped with a basking spot that has a temperature of around 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
The cage should also contain hiding spots, climbing branches, and a water dish. It is important to provide your red tegu lizard with a variety of toys and enrichment items to keep them stimulated.
See More: How Much Is A Tegu Lizard?
Red tegu lizards should be given a bath once or twice a week. The water should be shallow enough that the lizard can stand up and turn around comfortably. Be sure to use reptile-safe shampoo to avoid irritating your red tegu’s skin.
After the bath, it is important to provide your red tegu with a warm place to dry off and bask. A heat lamp can be used to create a basking spot that is around 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
Red tegu lizards should also be given a vitamin and mineral supplement every day to ensure that they are getting all the nutrients they need.
Do Red Tegus Make Good Pets?
Red tegus make great pets for people who are looking for an interesting and relatively easy-to-care-for animal. These lizards are very active and curious, which can make them enjoyable to watch. They are also generally docile animals that do not mind being handled. However, there are a few things you should keep in mind before getting a red tegu lizard as a pet.
First of all, red tegu lizards require a lot of space. They need a large enclosure that is at least four feet long and two feet wide. The enclosure should also have plenty of hiding places, as tegus like to feel secure. It is also important to provide them with a warm basking area, as they are cold-blooded animals.
How Much Does Red Tegus Cost?
Red tegus typically cost between $100 and $200. However, the price can vary depending on the size, age, and color of the lizard.
Where To Buy Red Tegus
Red tegus are available from many pet stores and reptile breeders. They can also be found for sale online. When buying a red tegu, be sure to purchase from a reputable source. This will help ensure that you get a healthy lizard that has been properly cared for.
Conclusion
Red tegu lizards make great pets for people who are looking for an active and curious animal. These lizards require a large enclosure, as well as a warm basking area. They should also be given a vitamin and mineral supplement every day. When buying a red tegu, be sure to purchase from a reputable source.
