Black and White Tegus that are well-maintained and handled regularly with appropriate care do not tend to be aggressive. However, if threatened, they will defend themselves. Their teeth can cause damage to bones. If attacked by a Tegu, you will most likely need stitches.
Residents of Florida are now legally allowed to kill these invasive Argentine black and white tegus spotted on private property, with the landowners’ permission, and on Florida’s public lands. Legal barriers protecting the non-native reptiles have been removed, to prevent the tegus population from increasing in Florida.
Despite their size, Argentine Tegus are not territorial and often hide in shelters to live peacefully. However, they can be aggressive as the breeding season comes closer or the female tegus build their nest.
After mating, the female tegu will lay 10 to 30 eggs in a nest she has dug herself. The eggs will incubate for 40 to 75 days before hatching. She potentially produces dozens of offspring over her lifetime.
As hatchings, the young tegus are born fully formed and independent in the beginning of spring. Unlike adults, young tegus are born with an emerald green head with black markings. After shedding a few times over several months, this green color eventually fades and turns black.
They are from eastern and central South America. Although most associated with Argentina, they span Uruguay, Paraguay, and several other surrounding countries.
The whole body of the Argentine black and white tegu is black and white. They are quite large, with stout, thick bodies. The base color is white, marked by stark black patterns all over.
In the wild, these reptiles are found on the ground, either basking or looking for food. Wild Tegus are more aggressive than captives. They will communicate by making huffing noises if irritated.
The Argentine Black and White Tegu make great pets. A healthy tegu in captivity can live longer than 15 to 20 years. The Argentine tegu requires special care like the red tegu.
Young tegus have an emerald green color from the snout to their back while the rest of the body is black and white. As they grow older, the green color fades, and the body becomes black and white. Males are larger and can grow to 4.0 and 4.5ft in length. They have strong claws for digging and strong jaws and sharp teeth to chew meat. When threatened, they swing their tail aggressively and release it when grabbed. They run bipedally at high speeds to intimidate enemies.
Tegus are incredibly intelligent and curious lizards that can be tamed and trained with regular handling and interaction. Argentine tegus are known to have “dog-like” qualities in that they are very loyal and seek companionship.
Do tegus have venom?
Tegus don’t use venom to hunt. Their venom protects from predators. It’s not potent enough to harm humans. Tegus have sharp teeth. Caution when handling them is recommended.
Tegu attacks on humans are rare. Captive tegus are tame. Wild tegus threaten other species. They’re invasive in the US. Wild tegus are not venomous or dangerous to humans.
Largest tegus average 2 feet. Their bite force is 1,000 newtons. That’s near large dogs’ bite force.
Tegus recognize and bond with owners. They love human affection. A tegu costs about $200. Blue tegus are popular pets.
Tegus have forked tongues. They rely on tongues to taste prey and regulate temperature. Tegus have teeth to bite prey. Large tegus can damage with their bite. Some tegus rarely bite. It’s common for tegus to bite new owners.
What are the predators of the tegu?
Predators of tegus include cougars, jaguars, otters, snakes, caimans, and birds of prey. A known predator of the Argentine black and white tegu is the lesser grison, a mustelid related to weasels. Salmonella was found in fecal samples from captive tegus illustrating infection prevalence.
It’s important to know the predators of Tegu Lizards to provide proper care. Knowing what they need to be aware of and protecting them from harm provides the best environment. Remember, Tegus thrive on plants and fruits. Adding variety to their diet keeps them healthy. With knowledge and forethought, you can ensure your Tegu enjoys a safe, happy experience.
Adult tegus reach 3 to 4 feet, with males larger than females. Predators rely on strength and abilities to capture tegus as food. Argentine tegus move at speeds up to 20 miles per hour. Another predator is the boa constrictor which kills prey by squeezing tightly until suffocation. Boas live in rainforests but also deserts and mountains.
Diseases tegus can contract include salmonella and cryptosporidiosis. Tegus inhabit tropical rainforests, savannas and semi-deserts of South America. Some escaped pets continue growing in the wild. In the wild, tegus prey on mammals and reptiles.
Argentine tegus grow up to four feet and 15 pounds. Select breeds reach six feet. Argentine tegus prefer snakes, rodents and birds but also eat turtles and small alligators. They need constant access to water. Captive tegus eat a lot. Tegus generally live 10-20 years.
Tegus are solitary, diurnal reptiles. Young tegus spend time in trees to avoid predators. Tegus forage and bask to regulate temperature. In winter they brumate in groups. They can run bipedally at high speeds with mouths open to look threatening.
Tegus eat eggs of ground birds and reptiles. They consume pet food left outdoors. Their teeth are sharp for defense but they don’t bite when handled.
If grasped by the tail, tegus can release it to escape while the predator is left with the wiggling tail. The tail regrows but not as long. Within their range tegus are considered pests as they feed on eggs and fowl. They steal eggs from bird, turtle and alligator nests.
In Florida tegus lack predators and prey has no defense. They systematically raid alligator nests, consuming eggs slowly. As a dietary and habitat generalist, they compete with and displace native species. Tegus resemble monitor lizards, being terrestrial opportunistic predators of eggs, fruits, insects and small vertebrates. They have a muscular build and powerful jaws.
Young tegus often fall prey so they need hide boxes where they feel safe from predators and can sleep. A dog kennel or hollow log can provide safety.
Are Argentine black and white Tegus good pets?
The Argentine black and white tegu is often recognized as the best pet lizard thanks to its mild temperament, high intelligence and dog-like qualities. Tegus really are just big scaly puppies! It is hard to find any other reptile that bonds with their owner like a tegu does, even showing affection and craving human presence.
There are many types of tegu lizards, the most common being the gold, red and Argentine black & white tegu. The tegu has become a household favorite for its docile and gentle nature, and strong connection to its owners. Tegus are terrestrial lizards that rarely climb but they are strong swimmers.
The tegu is possibly the most intelligent reptile. Argentine Tegus are the largest but also the most docile, making them the best choice for first-time owners. Colombian Tegus may suit more experienced keepers. Proper tegu care involves a big tank and attention to their omnivorous diet.
The ownership of exotic pets like the Argentine Black and White Tegu is subject to various laws and regulations to ensure protection of the animals and public. These impressive lizards can grow up to 4 feet long and have gained popularity thanks to their calm nature. However, their introduction to non-native ecosystems has raised concerns about their potential impact on wildlife.
Also called the “giant tegu”, Argentine black and white tegus can weigh up to 20 kilograms! They have claws, powerful jaws and a strong tail. Despite not being native to the Philippines, there are tegus living in the country. Guardians of pet tegus often associate them with cats. With proper socialization tegus are friendly and can even be housebroken.
The Argentine black and white tegu grows up to 4 feet long. It is black and white with banding on its tail. Hatchlings have green on their heads which fades after a few months. With proper handling tegus are docile. These lizards are smart and can be housebroken. Their legs are powerful which helps them run fast. A rare blue morph tegu can also be found. They have a unique and elegant color pattern.
Argentine black and white tegus are omnivorous and generally docile as adults. They can live up to 20 years in the wild. These lizards are one of the few partially warm-blooded reptiles, with body temperatures up to 50 degrees higher than their environment during breeding season.