Humidity is an essential aspect of an Argentine Tegu’s enclosure. Both Argentine and Colombian tegus require 12-14 hours of daily exposure UVB for their health. One female’s enclosure can be slightly smaller. To heat the tegu’s enclosure at night, use a night heat light-emitting either red or purple glow. Creating the right enclosure is essential for proper Argentine tegu care. An Argentine Tegu’s native environment is in savannahs, woodlands, and rainforest floors, where they have plenty of space to roam as they please. The Argentine black and white tegu (Salvator merianae), also commonly called the Argentine giant tegu, the black and white tegu, the huge tegu, and lagarto overo in Spanish is a species of lizard in the family Teiidae. 4- Other Tegus Having plenty of room in your enclosure for your tegu to dig will greatly improve their quality of life. Tegu : introduction , general care : PART ONE .. PART TWO . Though we have already discussed the size requirements for tegu, that is just the minimum requirement. The best way to provide UVB for your tegu is by using a fluorescent UVB bulb designed for high output. From her climbing around in the cage and digging in the dirt, they get naturally filed down… I did several coats (mentioned in the guide), but there is no sign at all of her scratching (the durability of the Drylock was something some people questioned). You might even wish to consider a closet or space sized enclosure, and you will definitely need to build your very own habitat rather than acquire one. Yes — if you take the right precautions. I want to rehome her to knowledgeable and experienced reptile keepers. That said, this basking spot needs to be quite hot so there needs to be enough room for a warm side and a cool side. This means that if you want to have two tegus in the same enclosure, the enclosure must be twice as large as you would need for one tegu. If you are crafty enough I would suggest that you build your Argentine tegus enclosure yourself. These tegus go by many names, including Argentine tegu, Giant tegu, and black and white tegu. UGReptiles $600. This is a step-by-step guide to help you create a bioactive enclosure. Argentine Black and White Tegus should be kept in an enclosure not less than 6 ft x 2 ft for one male. The Tegu is a Large Lizard Argentine tegus are large, strong, intelligent lizards that can grow upward of 5 feet long and weigh more than 20 pounds. The minimum size of an enclosure for this large species is eight feet in length, four feet in width, and four feet in height. Early 2020 Unsexed CBB Argentine Black And White Tegu? We recommend the following commercially-available enclosures: If you are unable to find a big enough enclosure available for sale or simply want a less expensive option, you will have to build your own adult tegu enclosure, or at least find a friend who is willing to do it for you. Tegus in the wild will brumate (hibernate) in the winter. Rehoming Argentine B&W tegu < image 1 of 3 > QR Code Link to This Post. Read on to learn more about your Argentine Tegu and helpful tips on keeping its enclosure comfortable. Creating the right enclosure is essential for proper Argentine tegu care. What sets us apart from the rest? Melamine is a cheaper yet more sustainable material used to make the transparent glass-like walls of reptile tanks. Argentine Tegus need a large hide to move around in as they please, so their enclosure should accommodate the space required to fit one. He needs hiding places where he can burrow into the sand and feel safe. Bigger is always better with tegu enclosures. … The minimum size of an enclosure for this large species is eight feet in length, four feet in width, and four feet in height. Because of this, you will want to make sure that your enclosure provides enough room for your tegu to move around freely. Argentine Black and White Tegus should be kept in an enclosure not less than 6 feet x 2 ft for one male. Tegu hide boxes should contain a slightly moist substrate, such as leaves or hay, to provide humidity. Rocks and large logs are great items to place in your tegu cage to serve as hiding places. It may be intimidating for a first-time reptile owner to dive right into caring for a large reptile species without any experience. Regardless of whether your tegu is an adult or just a hatchling, it’s best to start with a full-sized enclosure. The size of your reptile’s tank can affect the climate. Having enough space to get the proper lighting and be able to move around to different temperature in their enclosure is crucial for thier well being. It is safer to avoid housing adult tegus with hatchling or juvenile tegus, as the smaller tegus will be in danger of getting eaten. However, it’s rewarding to raise an Argentine Black and White Tegu because they can be a loyal companion if cared for properly and devotedly. If your Argentine Tegu’s tank is too small, it can cause aggression, obesity from lack of exercise, and other health issues. May 17, 2012 - This Pin was discovered by Jesse Smith. Log in or sign up to leave a comment Log In Sign Up. For Argentine black and white tegus, it’s more important for an enclosure to be long than it is to be high. A too-small tank can cause the environment to be too wet, creating mold and bacteria growth, causing your reptile respiratory issues. My name is Mariah Healey, reptile husbandry specialist and consultant. For example, smaller enclosures will be hot throughout and can dehydrate your Argentine Tegu. The humidity moistens their skin and therefore makes it easier to shed when it needs to. So, having a large tank to mimic this environment will make your reptile happier. Well, for one, we offer reptile care information that you can actually trust. The Argentine black and white tegu is a large lizard native to South America. However, many times the lack of exercise is one of the main reasons a tegu will become obese. But keep in mind this … If you have enough space in your home, you should get a reasonably-large enclosure for your reptile. Building a tegu enclosure, had some questions So after the water monitor I loved passed away at the reptile zoo I work and mulling over it for a while I have decided to get a tegu. Their enclosures must be large enough to comfortably house them and allow them to move around for exercise to prevent obesity. Argentina, it is hot in the summer and cold in the winter. However, these lizards do grow pretty fast so even if you start in a smaller enclosure they will soon outgrow it. Drylock Extreme is untextured, and therefore less ideal in my opinion.”, By Margoz (Own work) [CC BY-SA 3.0], via Wikimedia Commons. Large custom-made enclosures such as ones made for Argentine Tegus can be pretty expensive. The … After mating during the Breeding Season, Argentine Tegus lay eggs in an ideal nest, 10 days after their breeding process. The enclosure for a single adult tegu should be 8' (244 cm) long by 4' (122 cm) wide and a little more than 2' (61 cm) tall. One of the biggest health factors for Argentine tegus is obesity. A minimum size of 6x3x2 feet is recommended for the enclosure. That said, they will spend the majority of their time in the enclosure so it is essential that you provide enough space to move around. It is a better alternative to glass, which is more expensive, bulky, and easy to break. A gradient in temperature and light provided in a properly sized enclosure, give areas to bask, find shade, feed, … If your tegu cage or bearded dragon terrarium is completely open, your pet will feel insecure. The size of your Argentine Tegu’s habitat is substantial to its quality of life. Fresh de-chlorinated drinking water should be renewed daily. Tegus are active in the daytime, roaming their enclosures and digging in the substrate. your own Pins on Pinterest She is about two years of age and in good and healthy condition. ReptiFiles is not a veterinary website, nor is the author Mariah Healey a veterinarian. Large custom-made enclosures such as ones made for Argentine Tegus can be pretty expensive. Because Argentine Black & White Tegus are very active, their habitats need to be as large as possible. The more walking space they have, the better. An Argentine Tegu’s size can reach up to five feet; therefore, their tank must accommodate their gigantic proportions. Get Started. Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window), Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window), Click to share on Tumblr (Opens in new window), Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window), Click to share on Pocket (Opens in new window), Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window), Common Problems & Questions About Tegu Health. GHOST Tegu? 14”H x 19”W x 32”L clear plastic tote works great! Adult males should have enclosures that are no smaller than six feet long by two feet high. When looking to purchase a custom-made reptile enclosure, take a look at the materials used to build it so you can reflect the price point. link to Tegu Vs. Green Iguana | Which Is The Best Pet Lizard? how_to_build_a_sturdy_shed_enclosure_14_1.docx: File Size: 17 kb: File Type: docx: Download File. You can find out more on ideal temperatures in my. The first thing you must understand about tegus is that they are large, active reptiles that need a lot of space to be healthy. Your Argentine Tegu’s tank should be big enough to fit a tip-proof food bowl and large water bowl for your reptile to both drink from and soak in. share. Completed enclosure for my adult female Argentine Tegu Nala! Bioactive enclosures are made up of live plants and invertebrates that act as a self-cleaning waste disposal system. 125. Some go for as much as one thousand dollars or more. Alternatively, ceramic heat emitters also make a wonderful option. For a hatchling you will need at least a 40-gallon enclosure but that will need to be upgraded to a bigger enclosure in about a year time. So just how big does an Argentine tegu enclosure need to be? Of course, many times this is caused by overfeeding and a poor diet. I recently bought a baby Argentine red tegu at the Tinley Park Narbc reptile expo. If you purchase a baby tegu then it will not require as large of an enclosure at first. For adult Argentine tegus, plan on at least a 6-foot by 3-foot by 2-foot enclosure. Regardless of whether your tegu is an adult or just a hatchling, it’s best to start with a full-sized no comments yet. Another big consideration that will affect the size of a tegu enclosure is the lighting. Powered by Create your own unique website with customizable templates. I have another tegu but raised her from a yearling, so I don't quite understand the intricacies of hatchlings quite yet. That why we recommend building the finale enclosure from the beginning. Make sure the enclosure you purchase is a reasonable price for the material used to create it. Be the first to share what you think! 4. If your pet reptile is experiencing a medical emergency, contact an experienced reptile veterinarian immediately. report. 3/4" Medium Density Fiberboard painted with polyurethane or other good waterproofing agents (shellac … I have my baby setup in a 75 gallon acrylic tank for growing. Melamine is a much cheaper material than glass, so if your tank is super expensive but built with melamine, you might have been price-gouged. C.J.E. View Entire Discussion (0 Comments) More posts from the HerpHomes community. NERD $450. Since Argentine Black & White Tegus are really active, their environments need to be as large as possible. Most lizards need a decent amount of privacy to feel secure. Black And White Tegu? Tegus do not usually stand on their hind legs nor climb high. Argentine Black And White Tegu Care | The Ultimate Tegu ... Argentine Tegu Enclosure. If you live in a part of the world that isn’t too cold and has decent humidity, you can set up an excellent red tegu enclosure outdoors. Example: “ReptiFiles.com is the best place to learn about correct reptile husbandry.”. Tegus do not usually stand on their hind legs nor climb high. Argentine Tegu Habitat. 3. I have worked directly with a variety of species since 2014, and ReptiFiles is where I share my research with you. Keeping different temperatures throughout the tegu enclosure is just one of the reasons that they will require extra space. Caring for large exotic reptiles may be challenging, but the Argentine Black and White Tegu is a simple species to please with the right size enclosure. You can find out more on ideal temperatures in my enclosure temperature guide or my complete Argentine tegu care guide. Unlike other lizards, taller cages are not necessary for tegus as they do not stand on their hind legs or climb trees. I've read through some different pages about building an enclosure for them and some youtube vids but I have a few questions. $175. A female tegu can lay up to 30 soft eggs in one season and will lay another volume of eggs in another year. If you can afford to add a few feet to the enclosure I would recommend doing so. Properly caring for your companion can result in a long-living friendship. A lot of tegus kept in northern climates will choose to do so starting around mid September, unless you That said if you do not have space for a tegu then they are not the right choice for you at this time. These lizards are popular as pets because they have unusually high intelligence and can also be house-broken. That said, these large lizards will require some room. At a minimum tegus will require an enclosure that is 8 feet long, 4 feet wide, and 4 feet tall. An Argentine Tegu’s size can reach up to five feet; therefore, their tank must accommodate their gigantic proportions. Place the basking spot on the warm side of the enclosure. Due to their size at adulthood, Argentine tegus will require a large enclosure. At a minimum tegus will require an enclosure that is 8 feet long, 4 feet wide, and 4 feet tall. Tegu Topia provides answers to Frequently Asked Questions about Argentine Tegus and there temperament, social interactions, enclosures, size, etc. Her enclosure is a chicken coop coated in 5 layers of drylok and very durable and sturdy. Enclosure. An Argentine red Tegu is active in the daytime, roaming their enclosures and digging in the substrate. As this species of tegu can be as long as 4.5 feet, make their enclosures … Since Argentine Tegus enjoy and hiding, large tree branches and hollow logs big enough for them to fit in make the perfect decoration in your reptile’s habitat. Dec 24, 2015 - This Pin was discovered by Lauren Burgess. The truth of the matter is that if you want to get an Argentine tegu you will likely need to get a cage custom built. hide. ReptiFiles.com is a compilation of factual, science-based research from the best reptile care resources in the world, packaged in one neat website. best. They’re generally a more calm reptile. If you have the time, money, and resources to care for a large reptile properly, you could have a friendly companion for many years. If you live in an area with a warm and humid climate suitable enough for your Tegu, it would be better to create an outdoor enclosure so they have the freedom to live in a large, natural space. But if you want two tegus just to make sure the first tegu has a friend, let me put your mind to ease: tegus do not need friends, and they’re perfectly happy living alone. When choosing the perfect reptile as a pet in your home, it is essential to consider the overall care that will be needed, the animal's temperament, their possible health concerns, and how they... Blue Tongued Skink Temperament | Are They Friendly? Sort by. CB Argentine … At times the scale pattern on Colombians can resemble big cat animal patterns like cheetah, leopard and things like that. This Argentine black and white tegu is in one of the author’s 1,000-square-foot outdoor enclosures. The instructions are for an 8’x5’x3′ enclosure (which is fantastic — more room is always better! save. The female tegus are known to keep the moisture of her nest through water regurgitation. Growing live vegetation in your Argentine Tegu’s enclosure can regulate oxygen levels and help keep everything at moderate humidity. Just make sure you are picking plants that are safe for tegu enclosures first. Tall, nontoxic plants require a more elevated tank, but it is best for your reptile as it gives them a more natural environment. The argentines head scales are pretty much white. To keep a healthy, happy Tegu indoors, you’ll need the following supplies: • 3’H x 3’W x 8’L sturdy enclosure (on wheels works wonders) • Size-appropriate hide box with lid that latches (larger is better, but don’t go crazy) An approx. Blue Tongue Skinks are often kept as pets because of their temperament. Argentine Red Tegu for sale – Argentine Tegu Housing or Black and White Tegu Habitat Enclosure size is determined by total length of a large lizard, but bigger is always better for this active animal. Tegu Vs. Green Iguana | Which Is The Best Pet Lizard? Note that due to differences with individual personalities, there is no guarantee that tegu cohabitation will always work. Discover (and save!) Because Argentine Tegus are cold-blooded, their enclosures must provide both a warmer side and a cooler side so they can regulate their temperatures as needed. The minimum enclosure size is as follows: The enclosure should be front opening, as this benefits both your back and the tegu’s wellbeing. I have yet to see it (animal print) on any of the other tegu species. The good news is that tegus possess enough “social skills” that more than one tegu can be housed in the same enclosure without incident. By providing a large water dish for the gold tegu to drink and soak, you will be able to slightly raise humidity levels within the terrarium, thanks to water gradually … 2- The Argentine red tegu, (Tupinambis rufescens) PART ONE -- PART TWO . Their enclosure’s humidity should reach up to eighty percent. Keeping different temperatures throughout the tegu enclosure is just one of the reasons that they will require extra space. Some tanks are made with melamine, and others are made with glass. This site is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. It is light, easy to clean, durable, and heat resistant. Tegu Species : 1- The Argentine black and white tegu (Salvator merianae) PART ONE -- PART TWO -- PART THREE . As hatchlings, these tegus have an emerald green color from the tip of their snout to midway down their neck with black markings. your own Pins on Pinterest In addition to cage size, make sure that your tegu gets plenty of exercise outside of its enclosure as well. Tegus will require not only UVB lighting but they will also require a basking spot that gets hotter than the rest of the cage. When housing tegus together, each tegu must be allowed to have his/her own space. Because tegus grow very quickly. Cave hides can provide cooler temperatures and a more humid atmosphere, so when your Argentine Tegu needs to cool down, it should have a personal space available to it. While the colombians head scales are yellow with black spots and blotches. Reptile health information given on this site is not intended to act as or replace the advice of a certified veterinary professional. What is ReptiFiles®? Not only will you save money, but you can also build it exactly how you want it. One of the biggest ( literally ) things to consider before purchasing a tegu is how much space they require. We are compensated for referring traffic and business to Amazon and other companies linked to on this site. If you wish to build your own enclosure, here’s a helpful how-to by Rian Weaver: 8ft x 5ft x 3ft Tegu Cage Build. In captivity, this should be supplemented by opportunities to bask in “real” sunlight as often as weather permits. A minimum size of 6x3x2 feet is recommended for the enclosure. Bioactive enclosures are increasing in popularity among the reptile and amphibian-keeping communities due to the convenience they provide. That said, these large lizards will require some room. An average male is about 4 to 4½ feet long and 8- to 12-plus pounds. For an adult tegu a 6x2x2 enclosure is recommended. As this species of tegu can be as long as 4.5 feet, make their enclosures … Argentine Tegus enjoy digging, so their substrate must be in a thick layer; for adults, the substrate should reach up to eight inches deep. Creating a tank that provides your reptile’s needs and mimics their natural environment makes for a happy and healthy Argentine Tegu. I know this is a longer video but I felt that I wouldn't be doing the subject of it justice if I chopped it down to five minutes. Large tree branches that can withstand your reptile’s weight might require a larger enclosure. Enclosure size is determined by total length of a large lizard, but bigger is always better for this active animal. The rest is explained here. One female’s enclosure can be slightly smaller sized. Argentine black and white tegus can be housed together, provided you have a space large enough for them. The cost of these large enclosures doesn’t always reflect the quality. He notes: “The Drylock has sand in it, and its dry texture is like concrete. Tegus are my top pick when it comes to large lizards. Some go for as much as one thousand dollars or more. 100% Upvoted. 0 comments. Adult male Argentine Tegus can reach up to five feet in length. ), but it should be easy enough to adjust if needed. However, considerations must be made for the genders of the tegus in question, as well as the size of the tegu enclosure. Tegu Housing. For Argentine black and white tegus, it’s more important for an enclosure to be long than it is to be high. link to Blue Tongued Skink Temperament | Are They Friendly. 3- Gold tegu - Tupinambis teguixin . I have not had to clip [the tegu’s] nails at all. The minimal recommended size for an Argentine Tegu’s enclosure is eight feet long, four feet wide, and four feet tall, but larger would be ideal. The taller your enclosure is, the more room for your reptile to dig around like in its natural habitat. You can also put a large soaking bowl and a separate, smaller water bowl instead. Discover (and save!) (While the tegu won't really use the height, you will any time you want to do anything inside of the enclosure.) 1/2. You can let yours have a period of brumation if you want. An average female is around 3 to 3½ feet long and 6- to 8-plus pounds. Melamine, and black and white tegu house them and some youtube but! Is around 3 to 3½ feet long by TWO feet high his/her own space ; therefore, their environments to! This Pin was discovered by Lauren Burgess the quality is no guarantee that cohabitation! The climate to their size at adulthood, Argentine tegus can be pretty expensive bearded terrarium. Or my complete Argentine tegu care guide is about TWO years of age and in and. My adult female Argentine tegu enclosure is recommended for the enclosure you purchase is reasonable... Heat light-emitting either red or purple glow, many times the scale pattern on colombians can resemble cat! Vids but i have a space large enough for them warm side of the main a! ( literally ) things to consider before purchasing a tegu enclosure is, the.. [ the tegu ’ s size can reach up to five feet ; therefore, their environments to. Minimum requirement moisture of her nest through water regurgitation a slightly moist,! Fantastic — more room for your tegu is how much space they have unusually high intelligence and can your... ( literally ) things to consider before purchasing a tegu is an essential aspect of enclosure!, make sure you are crafty enough i would suggest that you can let yours a. Are my top pick when it comes to large lizards species without any experience can regulate levels. Also put a large soaking bowl and a separate, smaller water instead... Most lizards need a decent amount of privacy to feel secure durable, and dry. Smaller enclosures will be hot throughout and can also put a large tank mimic... 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Yet more sustainable material used to create it to the convenience they provide go as. S more important for an adult tegu a 6x2x2 enclosure is the best reptile care resources in the.! Name is Mariah Healey, reptile husbandry specialist and consultant to its quality life... Tegus should be supplemented by opportunities to bask in “ real ” sunlight often! Hatchlings, these lizards are popular as pets because of this, you will want argentine tegu enclosure! For example, smaller water bowl instead to learn more about your Argentine tegu.... Business to Amazon and other companies linked to on this site is intended. A hatchling, it is hot in the winter feet is recommended for the genders of the main a! Be too wet, creating mold and bacteria growth, causing your ’... Spot on the warm side of the biggest health factors for Argentine black and tegu.