{Tupinambis is a lizard genus which belongs to the family of Teiidae. | These large, South American lizards are commonly referred to as tegus; Tupinambis merianae (Argentine Black and White Tegu), Tupinambis rufescens (Red Tegu), and Tupinambis teguixin (Colombian Black and White Tegu, Gold Tegu, or Common Tegu) are all common in the pet trade. | Tegus are an escaped or illegally released species that has adapted to living in some of the more remote areas of South Florida. | Argentine tegus make good pets, as they have a tendency to become attached to their owners and are generally quite docile as adults. | Additionally, some Argentines have been trained to use litter boxes. | Tegus are prone to food aggression; they will quickly learn to associate human presence with food, and may turn their enthusiastic feeding response upon their caretakers if certain precautions are not taken. | Bowl feeding, if the same bowl is used every day, will cut down on aggression as the tegu learns to associate the bowl, and not its owners hand, with feeding time. | This will also prevent accidental ingestion of substrate, which can result in impaction, a serious health risk for reptiles. | Feeding in a separate area outside the enclosure is another way to accomplish both of these aims. | This tegu is primarily a carnivore. | Young animals are entirely carnivorous, but will accept, and must be given, fresh fruit and vegetables as they mature. | Their diet should mainly consist of appropriate sized insects, raw meat such as chicken or turkey, and cooked eggs. | Whole rodents are also a good source of nutrients, but should be given somewhat sparingly, as they are high in fat; tegus are prone to obesity and will happily over-eat if allowed. | Supplementing their diet with a mineral and vitamin powder is beneficial. | Always offer variety for proper nutrition. | Tegus are usually primarily carnivorous, except for Tupinambis rufescens (which is primarily herbivorous) and Tupinambis merianae (which is debatable 50/50). | Tegus fill the same ecological niche as monitor lizards and are an example of convergent evolution. | The Argentine Black and White Tegu, (Tupinambis merianae), is the largest species of tegu. | It belongs to the teiid family. | It was long believed the scientific name Tupinambis teguixin referred to this species, but it is today used for the Gold Tegu. | In captivity, adults require a large enclosure, 8feet Long x 3 feet wide x 18 inches tall at the smallest. | Because of the large caging requirements, it is considered best to build ones own cage. | Use full spectrum lighting 12-14 hours per day. | Putting a bulb on fine screen will filter out more than 50% of the useful rays, and the rays will not penetrate glass, acrylic glass or plastic. | The light should be mounted inside the tank with a half by half inch or similar guard so the lizard does not hurt itself. | Also, most UVA bulbs do not provide UVB, so read the label carefully. | They need to be replaced every year, so write the date on the bulb. | Provide a basking area with a temperature of about 90-100 degrees Fahrenheit with access to a cooler zone. | These animals are burrowers, and should be provided with plenty of substrate for digging. | They will sometimes build burrows and the substrate should be at least six inches deep to facilitate this. | Temperatures during the day should be gradient from 80 to 90 °F. | Maintain the night temperature range between 72-80 °F. | If necessary, use reptile heating pads under tank for 24-hour heat. | Alternately, a ceramic heat emitter can be used and is especially versatile, as it can be used at all times without disrupting the tegus photoperiod. | This species requires moderate to high levels of humidity for proper shedding. | Frequent misting of the tank is recommended. | The best and most common substrate for tegus is cypress mulch, as it holds moisture well and resists mold and decay. | Its life span is about fifteen to twenty years. | This terrestrial species inhabits the tropical rain forests of East and Central South America. | Individuals of this species like dense foliage and forage for food, of which they consume as much as possible before going into hibernation in autumn. | They also exhibit an unusually high level of intelligence among reptiles, along with a high level of physical activity during the wakeful period of the year. | The two most docile and easiest to handle species are the Argentine Black and White Tegu and the Red Tegu. | Additionally, a new variety has been recently introduced, called the Blue Tegu due to the tendency of males to become bright blue color upon maturity. | These variations grow to 2 and a half to 4 feet and have a pleasant nature making them good pets. | The Argentine tegu reaches lengths of 4 to 5+ feet at maturity. | Males are much larger and heavier than females, and develop jowls as they mature. | The sex of an Argentine tegu can be found by looking at the vent and searching for two raised bump-like features. | Hatchlings are bright green with black markings; the green fades to white within a couple of months. | In captivity, a healthy tegus diet should consist of mice/pinkies, crickets, and assorted fruits and vegetables. | In addition, they need proper housing with UVA and UVB light setups, maintaining a steady enclosure temperature of 75 F – 90 F during the day and just slightly cooler at night. | Because tegus, like all lizards, are exothermic, a temperature gradient will allow them to find the perfect location for their needs, so they also need a spot for basking with a temperature of 100 F – 120 F. | The Gold tegu, also known as Common tegu, black tegu and Columbian tegu, is a species of tegu. | Its scientific name Tupinambis teguixin was long believed to apply to the Argentine Black and White Tegu which is now Tupinambis merianae. | Gold tegus grow to around 80-110 cm with a glossy body, powerful limbs and a thick tail. | They have many black and gold stripes down their body. | Gold tegus live in the tropical forests of northern and central South America. | They feed on insects, invertebrates, small mammals, reptiles and birds,as well as fish. | Tegus naturally go into a hibernation cycle but it has been discovered that this is not needed to maintain their health. ||||||||||||||||}

{Tupinambis is a lizard genus which belongs to the family of Teiidae. | These large, South American lizards are commonly referred to as tegus; Tupinambis merianae (Argentine Black and White Tegu), Tupinambis rufescens (Red Tegu), and Tupinambis teguixin (Colombian Black and White Tegu, Gold Tegu, or Common Tegu) are all common in the pet trade. | Tegus are an escaped or illegally released species that has adapted to living in some of the more remote areas of South Florida. | Argentine tegus make good pets, as they have a tendency to become attached to their owners and are generally quite docile as adults. | Additionally, some Argentines have been trained to use litter boxes. | Tegus are prone to food aggression; they will quickly learn to associate human presence with food, and may turn their enthusiastic feeding response upon their caretakers if certain precautions are not taken. | Bowl feeding, if the same bowl is used every day, will cut down on aggression as the tegu learns to associate the bowl, and not its owners hand, with feeding time. | This will also prevent accidental ingestion of substrate, which can result in impaction, a serious health risk for reptiles. | Feeding in a separate area outside the enclosure is another way to accomplish both of these aims. | This tegu is primarily a carnivore. | Young animals are entirely carnivorous, but will accept, and must be given, fresh fruit and vegetables as they mature. | Their diet should mainly consist of appropriate sized insects, raw meat such as chicken or turkey, and cooked eggs. | Whole rodents are also a good source of nutrients, but should be given somewhat sparingly, as they are high in fat; tegus are prone to obesity and will happily over-eat if allowed. | Supplementing their diet with a mineral and vitamin powder is beneficial. | Always offer variety for proper nutrition. | Tegus are usually primarily carnivorous, except for Tupinambis rufescens (which is primarily herbivorous) and Tupinambis merianae (which is debatable 50/50). | Tegus fill the same ecological niche as monitor lizards and are an example of convergent evolution. | The Argentine Black and White Tegu, (Tupinambis merianae), is the largest species of tegu. | It belongs to the teiid family. | It was long believed the scientific name Tupinambis teguixin referred to this species, but it is today used for the Gold Tegu. | In captivity, adults require a large enclosure, 8feet Long x 3 feet wide x 18 inches tall at the smallest. | Because of the large caging requirements, it is considered best to build ones own cage. | Use full spectrum lighting 12-14 hours per day. | Putting a bulb on fine screen will filter out more than 50% of the useful rays, and the rays will not penetrate glass, acrylic glass or plastic. | The light should be mounted inside the tank with a half by half inch or similar guard so the lizard does not hurt itself. | Also, most UVA bulbs do not provide UVB, so read the label carefully. | They need to be replaced every year, so write the date on the bulb. | Provide a basking area with a temperature of about 90-100 degrees Fahrenheit with access to a cooler zone. | These animals are burrowers, and should be provided with plenty of substrate for digging. | They will sometimes build burrows and the substrate should be at least six inches deep to facilitate this. | Temperatures during the day should be gradient from 80 to 90 °F. | Maintain the night temperature range between 72-80 °F. | If necessary, use reptile heating pads under tank for 24-hour heat. | Alternately, a ceramic heat emitter can be used and is especially versatile, as it can be used at all times without disrupting the tegus photoperiod. | This species requires moderate to high levels of humidity for proper shedding. | Frequent misting of the tank is recommended. | The best and most common substrate for tegus is cypress mulch, as it holds moisture well and resists mold and decay. | Its life span is about fifteen to twenty years. | This terrestrial species inhabits the tropical rain forests of East and Central South America. | Individuals of this species like dense foliage and forage for food, of which they consume as much as possible before going into hibernation in autumn. | They also exhibit an unusually high level of intelligence among reptiles, along with a high level of physical activity during the wakeful period of the year. | The two most docile and easiest to handle species are the Argentine Black and White Tegu and the Red Tegu. | Additionally, a new variety has been recently introduced, called the Blue Tegu due to the tendency of males to become bright blue color upon maturity. | These variations grow to 2 and a half to 4 feet and have a pleasant nature making them good pets. | The Argentine tegu reaches lengths of 4 to 5+ feet at maturity. | Males are much larger and heavier than females, and develop jowls as they mature. | The sex of an Argentine tegu can be found by looking at the vent and searching for two raised bump-like features. | Hatchlings are bright green with black markings; the green fades to white within a couple of months. | In captivity, a healthy tegus diet should consist of mice/pinkies, crickets, and assorted fruits and vegetables. | In addition, they need proper housing with UVA and UVB light setups, maintaining a steady enclosure temperature of 75 F – 90 F during the day and just slightly cooler at night. | Because tegus, like all lizards, are exothermic, a temperature gradient will allow them to find the perfect location for their needs, so they also need a spot for basking with a temperature of 100 F – 120 F. | The Gold tegu, also known as Common tegu, black tegu and Columbian tegu, is a species of tegu. | Its scientific name Tupinambis teguixin was long believed to apply to the Argentine Black and White Tegu which is now Tupinambis merianae. | Gold tegus grow to around 80-110 cm with a glossy body, powerful limbs and a thick tail. | They have many black and gold stripes down their body. | Gold tegus live in the tropical forests of northern and central South America. | They feed on insects, invertebrates, small mammals, reptiles and birds,as well as fish. | Tegus naturally go into a hibernation cycle but it has been discovered that this is not needed to maintain their health. ||||||||||||||||}

{Tupinambis is a lizard genus which belongs to the family of Teiidae. | These large, South American lizards are commonly referred to as tegus; Tupinambis merianae (Argentine Black and White Tegu), Tupinambis rufescens (Red Tegu), and Tupinambis teguixin (Colombian Black and White Tegu, Gold Tegu, or Common Tegu) are all common in the pet trade. | Tegus are an escaped or illegally released species that has adapted to living in some of the more remote areas of South Florida. | Argentine tegus make good pets, as they have a tendency to become attached to their owners and are generally quite docile as adults. | Additionally, some Argentines have been trained to use litter boxes. | Tegus are prone to food aggression; they will quickly learn to associate human presence with food, and may turn their enthusiastic feeding response upon their caretakers if certain precautions are not taken. | Bowl feeding, if the same bowl is used every day, will cut down on aggression as the tegu learns to associate the bowl, and not its owners hand, with feeding time. | This will also prevent accidental ingestion of substrate, which can result in impaction, a serious health risk for reptiles. | Feeding in a separate area outside the enclosure is another way to accomplish both of these aims. | This tegu is primarily a carnivore. | Young animals are entirely carnivorous, but will accept, and must be given, fresh fruit and vegetables as they mature. | Their diet should mainly consist of appropriate sized insects, raw meat such as chicken or turkey, and cooked eggs. | Whole rodents are also a good source of nutrients, but should be given somewhat sparingly, as they are high in fat; tegus are prone to obesity and will happily over-eat if allowed. | Supplementing their diet with a mineral and vitamin powder is beneficial. | Always offer variety for proper nutrition. | Tegus are usually primarily carnivorous, except for Tupinambis rufescens (which is primarily herbivorous) and Tupinambis merianae (which is debatable 50/50). | Tegus fill the same ecological niche as monitor lizards and are an example of convergent evolution. | The Argentine Black and White Tegu, (Tupinambis merianae), is the largest species of tegu. | It belongs to the teiid family. | It was long believed the scientific name Tupinambis teguixin referred to this species, but it is today used for the Gold Tegu. | In captivity, adults require a large enclosure, 8feet Long x 3 feet wide x 18 inches tall at the smallest. | Because of the large caging requirements, it is considered best to build ones own cage. | Use full spectrum lighting 12-14 hours per day. | Putting a bulb on fine screen will filter out more than 50% of the useful rays, and the rays will not penetrate glass, acrylic glass or plastic. | The light should be mounted inside the tank with a half by half inch or similar guard so the lizard does not hurt itself. | Also, most UVA bulbs do not provide UVB, so read the label carefully. | They need to be replaced every year, so write the date on the bulb. | Provide a basking area with a temperature of about 90-100 degrees Fahrenheit with access to a cooler zone. | These animals are burrowers, and should be provided with plenty of substrate for digging. | They will sometimes build burrows and the substrate should be at least six inches deep to facilitate this. | Temperatures during the day should be gradient from 80 to 90 °F. | Maintain the night temperature range between 72-80 °F. | If necessary, use reptile heating pads under tank for 24-hour heat. | Alternately, a ceramic heat emitter can be used and is especially versatile, as it can be used at all times without disrupting the tegus photoperiod. | This species requires moderate to high levels of humidity for proper shedding. | Frequent misting of the tank is recommended. | The best and most common substrate for tegus is cypress mulch, as it holds moisture well and resists mold and decay. | Its life span is about fifteen to twenty years. | This terrestrial species inhabits the tropical rain forests of East and Central South America. | Individuals of this species like dense foliage and forage for food, of which they consume as much as possible before going into hibernation in autumn. | They also exhibit an unusually high level of intelligence among reptiles, along with a high level of physical activity during the wakeful period of the year. | The two most docile and easiest to handle species are the Argentine Black and White Tegu and the Red Tegu. | Additionally, a new variety has been recently introduced, called the Blue Tegu due to the tendency of males to become bright blue color upon maturity. | These variations grow to 2 and a half to 4 feet and have a pleasant nature making them good pets. | The Argentine tegu reaches lengths of 4 to 5+ feet at maturity. | Males are much larger and heavier than females, and develop jowls as they mature. | The sex of an Argentine tegu can be found by looking at the vent and searching for two raised bump-like features. | Hatchlings are bright green with black markings; the green fades to white within a couple of months. | In captivity, a healthy tegus diet should consist of mice/pinkies, crickets, and assorted fruits and vegetables. | In addition, they need proper housing with UVA and UVB light setups, maintaining a steady enclosure temperature of 75 F – 90 F during the day and just slightly cooler at night. | Because tegus, like all lizards, are exothermic, a temperature gradient will allow them to find the perfect location for their needs, so they also need a spot for basking with a temperature of 100 F – 120 F. | The Gold tegu, also known as Common tegu, black tegu and Columbian tegu, is a species of tegu. | Its scientific name Tupinambis teguixin was long believed to apply to the Argentine Black and White Tegu which is now Tupinambis merianae. | Gold tegus grow to around 80-110 cm with a glossy body, powerful limbs and a thick tail. | They have many black and gold stripes down their body. | Gold tegus live in the tropical forests of northern and central South America. | They feed on insects, invertebrates, small mammals, reptiles and birds,as well as fish. | Tegus naturally go into a hibernation cycle but it has been discovered that this is not needed to maintain their health. ||||||||||||||||}

{Tupinambis is a lizard genus which belongs to the family of Teiidae. | These large, South American lizards are commonly referred to as tegus; Tupinambis merianae (Argentine Black and White Tegu), Tupinambis rufescens (Red Tegu), and Tupinambis teguixin (Colombian Black and White Tegu, Gold Tegu, or Common Tegu) are all common in the pet trade. | Tegus are an escaped or illegally released species that has adapted to living in some of the more remote areas of South Florida. | Argentine tegus make good pets, as they have a tendency to become attached to their owners and are generally quite docile as adults. | Additionally, some Argentines have been trained to use litter boxes. | Tegus are prone to food aggression; they will quickly learn to associate human presence with food, and may turn their enthusiastic feeding response upon their caretakers if certain precautions are not taken. | Bowl feeding, if the same bowl is used every day, will cut down on aggression as the tegu learns to associate the bowl, and not its owners hand, with feeding time. | This will also prevent accidental ingestion of substrate, which can result in impaction, a serious health risk for reptiles. | Feeding in a separate area outside the enclosure is another way to accomplish both of these aims. | This tegu is primarily a carnivore. | Young animals are entirely carnivorous, but will accept, and must be given, fresh fruit and vegetables as they mature. | Their diet should mainly consist of appropriate sized insects, raw meat such as chicken or turkey, and cooked eggs. | Whole rodents are also a good source of nutrients, but should be given somewhat sparingly, as they are high in fat; tegus are prone to obesity and will happily over-eat if allowed. | Supplementing their diet with a mineral and vitamin powder is beneficial. | Always offer variety for proper nutrition. | Tegus are usually primarily carnivorous, except for Tupinambis rufescens (which is primarily herbivorous) and Tupinambis merianae (which is debatable 50/50). | Tegus fill the same ecological niche as monitor lizards and are an example of convergent evolution. | The Argentine Black and White Tegu, (Tupinambis merianae), is the largest species of tegu. | It belongs to the teiid family. | It was long believed the scientific name Tupinambis teguixin referred to this species, but it is today used for the Gold Tegu. | In captivity, adults require a large enclosure, 8feet Long x 3 feet wide x 18 inches tall at the smallest. | Because of the large caging requirements, it is considered best to build ones own cage. | Use full spectrum lighting 12-14 hours per day. | Putting a bulb on fine screen will filter out more than 50% of the useful rays, and the rays will not penetrate glass, acrylic glass or plastic. | The light should be mounted inside the tank with a half by half inch or similar guard so the lizard does not hurt itself. | Also, most UVA bulbs do not provide UVB, so read the label carefully. | They need to be replaced every year, so write the date on the bulb. | Provide a basking area with a temperature of about 90-100 degrees Fahrenheit with access to a cooler zone. | These animals are burrowers, and should be provided with plenty of substrate for digging. | They will sometimes build burrows and the substrate should be at least six inches deep to facilitate this. | Temperatures during the day should be gradient from 80 to 90 °F. | Maintain the night temperature range between 72-80 °F. | If necessary, use reptile heating pads under tank for 24-hour heat. | Alternately, a ceramic heat emitter can be used and is especially versatile, as it can be used at all times without disrupting the tegus photoperiod. | This species requires moderate to high levels of humidity for proper shedding. | Frequent misting of the tank is recommended. | The best and most common substrate for tegus is cypress mulch, as it holds moisture well and resists mold and decay. | Its life span is about fifteen to twenty years. | This terrestrial species inhabits the tropical rain forests of East and Central South America. | Individuals of this species like dense foliage and forage for food, of which they consume as much as possible before going into hibernation in autumn. | They also exhibit an unusually high level of intelligence among reptiles, along with a high level of physical activity during the wakeful period of the year. | The two most docile and easiest to handle species are the Argentine Black and White Tegu and the Red Tegu. | Additionally, a new variety has been recently introduced, called the Blue Tegu due to the tendency of males to become bright blue color upon maturity. | These variations grow to 2 and a half to 4 feet and have a pleasant nature making them good pets. | The Argentine tegu reaches lengths of 4 to 5+ feet at maturity. | Males are much larger and heavier than females, and develop jowls as they mature. | The sex of an Argentine tegu can be found by looking at the vent and searching for two raised bump-like features. | Hatchlings are bright green with black markings; the green fades to white within a couple of months. | In captivity, a healthy tegus diet should consist of mice/pinkies, crickets, and assorted fruits and vegetables. | In addition, they need proper housing with UVA and UVB light setups, maintaining a steady enclosure temperature of 75 F – 90 F during the day and just slightly cooler at night. | Because tegus, like all lizards, are exothermic, a temperature gradient will allow them to find the perfect location for their needs, so they also need a spot for basking with a temperature of 100 F – 120 F. | The Gold tegu, also known as Common tegu, black tegu and Columbian tegu, is a species of tegu. | Its scientific name Tupinambis teguixin was long believed to apply to the Argentine Black and White Tegu which is now Tupinambis merianae. | Gold tegus grow to around 80-110 cm with a glossy body, powerful limbs and a thick tail. | They have many black and gold stripes down their body. | Gold tegus live in the tropical forests of northern and central South America. | They feed on insects, invertebrates, small mammals, reptiles and birds,as well as fish. | Tegus naturally go into a hibernation cycle but it has been discovered that this is not needed to maintain their health. ||||||||||||||||}

{Tupinambis is a lizard genus which belongs to the family of Teiidae. | These large, South American lizards are commonly referred to as tegus; Tupinambis merianae (Argentine Black and White Tegu), Tupinambis rufescens (Red Tegu), and Tupinambis teguixin (Colombian Black and White Tegu, Gold Tegu, or Common Tegu) are all common in the pet trade. | Tegus are an escaped or illegally released species that has adapted to living in some of the more remote areas of South Florida. | Argentine tegus make good pets, as they have a tendency to become attached to their owners and are generally quite docile as adults. | Additionally, some Argentines have been trained to use litter boxes. | Tegus are prone to food aggression; they will quickly learn to associate human presence with food, and may turn their enthusiastic feeding response upon their caretakers if certain precautions are not taken. | Bowl feeding, if the same bowl is used every day, will cut down on aggression as the tegu learns to associate the bowl, and not its owners hand, with feeding time. | This will also prevent accidental ingestion of substrate, which can result in impaction, a serious health risk for reptiles. | Feeding in a separate area outside the enclosure is another way to accomplish both of these aims. | This tegu is primarily a carnivore. | Young animals are entirely carnivorous, but will accept, and must be given, fresh fruit and vegetables as they mature. | Their diet should mainly consist of appropriate sized insects, raw meat such as chicken or turkey, and cooked eggs. | Whole rodents are also a good source of nutrients, but should be given somewhat sparingly, as they are high in fat; tegus are prone to obesity and will happily over-eat if allowed. | Supplementing their diet with a mineral and vitamin powder is beneficial. | Always offer variety for proper nutrition. | Tegus are usually primarily carnivorous, except for Tupinambis rufescens (which is primarily herbivorous) and Tupinambis merianae (which is debatable 50/50). | Tegus fill the same ecological niche as monitor lizards and are an example of convergent evolution. | The Argentine Black and White Tegu, (Tupinambis merianae), is the largest species of tegu. | It belongs to the teiid family. | It was long believed the scientific name Tupinambis teguixin referred to this species, but it is today used for the Gold Tegu. | In captivity, adults require a large enclosure, 8feet Long x 3 feet wide x 18 inches tall at the smallest. | Because of the large caging requirements, it is considered best to build ones own cage. | Use full spectrum lighting 12-14 hours per day. | Putting a bulb on fine screen will filter out more than 50% of the useful rays, and the rays will not penetrate glass, acrylic glass or plastic. | The light should be mounted inside the tank with a half by half inch or similar guard so the lizard does not hurt itself. | Also, most UVA bulbs do not provide UVB, so read the label carefully. | They need to be replaced every year, so write the date on the bulb. | Provide a basking area with a temperature of about 90-100 degrees Fahrenheit with access to a cooler zone. | These animals are burrowers, and should be provided with plenty of substrate for digging. | They will sometimes build burrows and the substrate should be at least six inches deep to facilitate this. | Temperatures during the day should be gradient from 80 to 90 °F. | Maintain the night temperature range between 72-80 °F. | If necessary, use reptile heating pads under tank for 24-hour heat. | Alternately, a ceramic heat emitter can be used and is especially versatile, as it can be used at all times without disrupting the tegus photoperiod. | This species requires moderate to high levels of humidity for proper shedding. | Frequent misting of the tank is recommended. | The best and most common substrate for tegus is cypress mulch, as it holds moisture well and resists mold and decay. | Its life span is about fifteen to twenty years. | This terrestrial species inhabits the tropical rain forests of East and Central South America. | Individuals of this species like dense foliage and forage for food, of which they consume as much as possible before going into hibernation in autumn. | They also exhibit an unusually high level of intelligence among reptiles, along with a high level of physical activity during the wakeful period of the year. | The two most docile and easiest to handle species are the Argentine Black and White Tegu and the Red Tegu. | Additionally, a new variety has been recently introduced, called the Blue Tegu due to the tendency of males to become bright blue color upon maturity. | These variations grow to 2 and a half to 4 feet and have a pleasant nature making them good pets. | The Argentine tegu reaches lengths of 4 to 5+ feet at maturity. | Males are much larger and heavier than females, and develop jowls as they mature. | The sex of an Argentine tegu can be found by looking at the vent and searching for two raised bump-like features. | Hatchlings are bright green with black markings; the green fades to white within a couple of months. | In captivity, a healthy tegus diet should consist of mice/pinkies, crickets, and assorted fruits and vegetables. | In addition, they need proper housing with UVA and UVB light setups, maintaining a steady enclosure temperature of 75 F – 90 F during the day and just slightly cooler at night. | Because tegus, like all lizards, are exothermic, a temperature gradient will allow them to find the perfect location for their needs, so they also need a spot for basking with a temperature of 100 F – 120 F. | The Gold tegu, also known as Common tegu, black tegu and Columbian tegu, is a species of tegu. | Its scientific name Tupinambis teguixin was long believed to apply to the Argentine Black and White Tegu which is now Tupinambis merianae. | Gold tegus grow to around 80-110 cm with a glossy body, powerful limbs and a thick tail. | They have many black and gold stripes down their body. | Gold tegus live in the tropical forests of northern and central South America. | They feed on insects, invertebrates, small mammals, reptiles and birds,as well as fish. | Tegus naturally go into a hibernation cycle but it has been discovered that this is not needed to maintain their health. ||||||||||||||||}

{Tupinambis is a lizard genus which belongs to the family of Teiidae. | These large, South American lizards are commonly referred to as tegus; Tupinambis merianae (Argentine Black and White Tegu), Tupinambis rufescens (Red Tegu), and Tupinambis teguixin (Colombian Black and White Tegu, Gold Tegu, or Common Tegu) are all common in the pet trade. | Tegus are an escaped or illegally released species that has adapted to living in some of the more remote areas of South Florida. | Argentine tegus make good pets, as they have a tendency to become attached to their owners and are generally quite docile as adults. | Additionally, some Argentines have been trained to use litter boxes. | Tegus are prone to food aggression; they will quickly learn to associate human presence with food, and may turn their enthusiastic feeding response upon their caretakers if certain precautions are not taken. | Bowl feeding, if the same bowl is used every day, will cut down on aggression as the tegu learns to associate the bowl, and not its owners hand, with feeding time. | This will also prevent accidental ingestion of substrate, which can result in impaction, a serious health risk for reptiles. | Feeding in a separate area outside the enclosure is another way to accomplish both of these aims. | This tegu is primarily a carnivore. | Young animals are entirely carnivorous, but will accept, and must be given, fresh fruit and vegetables as they mature. | Their diet should mainly consist of appropriate sized insects, raw meat such as chicken or turkey, and cooked eggs. | Whole rodents are also a good source of nutrients, but should be given somewhat sparingly, as they are high in fat; tegus are prone to obesity and will happily over-eat if allowed. | Supplementing their diet with a mineral and vitamin powder is beneficial. | Always offer variety for proper nutrition. | Tegus are usually primarily carnivorous, except for Tupinambis rufescens (which is primarily herbivorous) and Tupinambis merianae (which is debatable 50/50). | Tegus fill the same ecological niche as monitor lizards and are an example of convergent evolution. | The Argentine Black and White Tegu, (Tupinambis merianae), is the largest species of tegu. | It belongs to the teiid family. | It was long believed the scientific name Tupinambis teguixin referred to this species, but it is today used for the Gold Tegu. | In captivity, adults require a large enclosure, 8feet Long x 3 feet wide x 18 inches tall at the smallest. | Because of the large caging requirements, it is considered best to build ones own cage. | Use full spectrum lighting 12-14 hours per day. | Putting a bulb on fine screen will filter out more than 50% of the useful rays, and the rays will not penetrate glass, acrylic glass or plastic. | The light should be mounted inside the tank with a half by half inch or similar guard so the lizard does not hurt itself. | Also, most UVA bulbs do not provide UVB, so read the label carefully. | They need to be replaced every year, so write the date on the bulb. | Provide a basking area with a temperature of about 90-100 degrees Fahrenheit with access to a cooler zone. | These animals are burrowers, and should be provided with plenty of substrate for digging. | They will sometimes build burrows and the substrate should be at least six inches deep to facilitate this. | Temperatures during the day should be gradient from 80 to 90 °F. | Maintain the night temperature range between 72-80 °F. | If necessary, use reptile heating pads under tank for 24-hour heat. | Alternately, a ceramic heat emitter can be used and is especially versatile, as it can be used at all times without disrupting the tegus photoperiod. | This species requires moderate to high levels of humidity for proper shedding. | Frequent misting of the tank is recommended. | The best and most common substrate for tegus is cypress mulch, as it holds moisture well and resists mold and decay. | Its life span is about fifteen to twenty years. | This terrestrial species inhabits the tropical rain forests of East and Central South America. | Individuals of this species like dense foliage and forage for food, of which they consume as much as possible before going into hibernation in autumn. | They also exhibit an unusually high level of intelligence among reptiles, along with a high level of physical activity during the wakeful period of the year. | The two most docile and easiest to handle species are the Argentine Black and White Tegu and the Red Tegu. | Additionally, a new variety has been recently introduced, called the Blue Tegu due to the tendency of males to become bright blue color upon maturity. | These variations grow to 2 and a half to 4 feet and have a pleasant nature making them good pets. | The Argentine tegu reaches lengths of 4 to 5+ feet at maturity. | Males are much larger and heavier than females, and develop jowls as they mature. | The sex of an Argentine tegu can be found by looking at the vent and searching for two raised bump-like features. | Hatchlings are bright green with black markings; the green fades to white within a couple of months. | In captivity, a healthy tegus diet should consist of mice/pinkies, crickets, and assorted fruits and vegetables. | In addition, they need proper housing with UVA and UVB light setups, maintaining a steady enclosure temperature of 75 F – 90 F during the day and just slightly cooler at night. | Because tegus, like all lizards, are exothermic, a temperature gradient will allow them to find the perfect location for their needs, so they also need a spot for basking with a temperature of 100 F – 120 F. | The Gold tegu, also known as Common tegu, black tegu and Columbian tegu, is a species of tegu. | Its scientific name Tupinambis teguixin was long believed to apply to the Argentine Black and White Tegu which is now Tupinambis merianae. | Gold tegus grow to around 80-110 cm with a glossy body, powerful limbs and a thick tail. | They have many black and gold stripes down their body. | Gold tegus live in the tropical forests of northern and central South America. | They feed on insects, invertebrates, small mammals, reptiles and birds,as well as fish. | Tegus naturally go into a hibernation cycle but it has been discovered that this is not needed to maintain their health. ||||||||||||||||}

{Tupinambis is a lizard genus which belongs to the family of Teiidae. | These large, South American lizards are commonly referred to as tegus; Tupinambis merianae (Argentine Black and White Tegu), Tupinambis rufescens (Red Tegu), and Tupinambis teguixin (Colombian Black and White Tegu, Gold Tegu, or Common Tegu) are all common in the pet trade. | Tegus are an escaped or illegally released species that has adapted to living in some of the more remote areas of South Florida. | Argentine tegus make good pets, as they have a tendency to become attached to their owners and are generally quite docile as adults. | Additionally, some Argentines have been trained to use litter boxes. | Tegus are prone to food aggression; they will quickly learn to associate human presence with food, and may turn their enthusiastic feeding response upon their caretakers if certain precautions are not taken. | Bowl feeding, if the same bowl is used every day, will cut down on aggression as the tegu learns to associate the bowl, and not its owners hand, with feeding time. | This will also prevent accidental ingestion of substrate, which can result in impaction, a serious health risk for reptiles. | Feeding in a separate area outside the enclosure is another way to accomplish both of these aims. | This tegu is primarily a carnivore. | Young animals are entirely carnivorous, but will accept, and must be given, fresh fruit and vegetables as they mature. | Their diet should mainly consist of appropriate sized insects, raw meat such as chicken or turkey, and cooked eggs. | Whole rodents are also a good source of nutrients, but should be given somewhat sparingly, as they are high in fat; tegus are prone to obesity and will happily over-eat if allowed. | Supplementing their diet with a mineral and vitamin powder is beneficial. | Always offer variety for proper nutrition. | Tegus are usually primarily carnivorous, except for Tupinambis rufescens (which is primarily herbivorous) and Tupinambis merianae (which is debatable 50/50). | Tegus fill the same ecological niche as monitor lizards and are an example of convergent evolution. | The Argentine Black and White Tegu, (Tupinambis merianae), is the largest species of tegu. | It belongs to the teiid family. | It was long believed the scientific name Tupinambis teguixin referred to this species, but it is today used for the Gold Tegu. | In captivity, adults require a large enclosure, 8feet Long x 3 feet wide x 18 inches tall at the smallest. | Because of the large caging requirements, it is considered best to build ones own cage. | Use full spectrum lighting 12-14 hours per day. | Putting a bulb on fine screen will filter out more than 50% of the useful rays, and the rays will not penetrate glass, acrylic glass or plastic. | The light should be mounted inside the tank with a half by half inch or similar guard so the lizard does not hurt itself. | Also, most UVA bulbs do not provide UVB, so read the label carefully. | They need to be replaced every year, so write the date on the bulb. | Provide a basking area with a temperature of about 90-100 degrees Fahrenheit with access to a cooler zone. | These animals are burrowers, and should be provided with plenty of substrate for digging. | They will sometimes build burrows and the substrate should be at least six inches deep to facilitate this. | Temperatures during the day should be gradient from 80 to 90 °F. | Maintain the night temperature range between 72-80 °F. | If necessary, use reptile heating pads under tank for 24-hour heat. | Alternately, a ceramic heat emitter can be used and is especially versatile, as it can be used at all times without disrupting the tegus photoperiod. | This species requires moderate to high levels of humidity for proper shedding. | Frequent misting of the tank is recommended. | The best and most common substrate for tegus is cypress mulch, as it holds moisture well and resists mold and decay. | Its life span is about fifteen to twenty years. | This terrestrial species inhabits the tropical rain forests of East and Central South America. | Individuals of this species like dense foliage and forage for food, of which they consume as much as possible before going into hibernation in autumn. | They also exhibit an unusually high level of intelligence among reptiles, along with a high level of physical activity during the wakeful period of the year. | The two most docile and easiest to handle species are the Argentine Black and White Tegu and the Red Tegu. | Additionally, a new variety has been recently introduced, called the Blue Tegu due to the tendency of males to become bright blue color upon maturity. | These variations grow to 2 and a half to 4 feet and have a pleasant nature making them good pets. | The Argentine tegu reaches lengths of 4 to 5+ feet at maturity. | Males are much larger and heavier than females, and develop jowls as they mature. | The sex of an Argentine tegu can be found by looking at the vent and searching for two raised bump-like features. | Hatchlings are bright green with black markings; the green fades to white within a couple of months. | In captivity, a healthy tegus diet should consist of mice/pinkies, crickets, and assorted fruits and vegetables. | In addition, they need proper housing with UVA and UVB light setups, maintaining a steady enclosure temperature of 75 F – 90 F during the day and just slightly cooler at night. | Because tegus, like all lizards, are exothermic, a temperature gradient will allow them to find the perfect location for their needs, so they also need a spot for basking with a temperature of 100 F – 120 F. | The Gold tegu, also known as Common tegu, black tegu and Columbian tegu, is a species of tegu. | Its scientific name Tupinambis teguixin was long believed to apply to the Argentine Black and White Tegu which is now Tupinambis merianae. | Gold tegus grow to around 80-110 cm with a glossy body, powerful limbs and a thick tail. | They have many black and gold stripes down their body. | Gold tegus live in the tropical forests of northern and central South America. | They feed on insects, invertebrates, small mammals, reptiles and birds,as well as fish. | Tegus naturally go into a hibernation cycle but it has been discovered that this is not needed to maintain their health. ||||||||||||||||}

{Tupinambis is a lizard genus which belongs to the family of Teiidae. | These large, South American lizards are commonly referred to as tegus; Tupinambis merianae (Argentine Black and White Tegu), Tupinambis rufescens (Red Tegu), and Tupinambis teguixin (Colombian Black and White Tegu, Gold Tegu, or Common Tegu) are all common in the pet trade. | Tegus are an escaped or illegally released species that has adapted to living in some of the more remote areas of South Florida. | Argentine tegus make good pets, as they have a tendency to become attached to their owners and are generally quite docile as adults. | Additionally, some Argentines have been trained to use litter boxes. | Tegus are prone to food aggression; they will quickly learn to associate human presence with food, and may turn their enthusiastic feeding response upon their caretakers if certain precautions are not taken. | Bowl feeding, if the same bowl is used every day, will cut down on aggression as the tegu learns to associate the bowl, and not its owners hand, with feeding time. | This will also prevent accidental ingestion of substrate, which can result in impaction, a serious health risk for reptiles. | Feeding in a separate area outside the enclosure is another way to accomplish both of these aims. | This tegu is primarily a carnivore. | Young animals are entirely carnivorous, but will accept, and must be given, fresh fruit and vegetables as they mature. | Their diet should mainly consist of appropriate sized insects, raw meat such as chicken or turkey, and cooked eggs. | Whole rodents are also a good source of nutrients, but should be given somewhat sparingly, as they are high in fat; tegus are prone to obesity and will happily over-eat if allowed. | Supplementing their diet with a mineral and vitamin powder is beneficial. | Always offer variety for proper nutrition. | Tegus are usually primarily carnivorous, except for Tupinambis rufescens (which is primarily herbivorous) and Tupinambis merianae (which is debatable 50/50). | Tegus fill the same ecological niche as monitor lizards and are an example of convergent evolution. | The Argentine Black and White Tegu, (Tupinambis merianae), is the largest species of tegu. | It belongs to the teiid family. | It was long believed the scientific name Tupinambis teguixin referred to this species, but it is today used for the Gold Tegu. | In captivity, adults require a large enclosure, 8feet Long x 3 feet wide x 18 inches tall at the smallest. | Because of the large caging requirements, it is considered best to build ones own cage. | Use full spectrum lighting 12-14 hours per day. | Putting a bulb on fine screen will filter out more than 50% of the useful rays, and the rays will not penetrate glass, acrylic glass or plastic. | The light should be mounted inside the tank with a half by half inch or similar guard so the lizard does not hurt itself. | Also, most UVA bulbs do not provide UVB, so read the label carefully. | They need to be replaced every year, so write the date on the bulb. | Provide a basking area with a temperature of about 90-100 degrees Fahrenheit with access to a cooler zone. | These animals are burrowers, and should be provided with plenty of substrate for digging. | They will sometimes build burrows and the substrate should be at least six inches deep to facilitate this. | Temperatures during the day should be gradient from 80 to 90 °F. | Maintain the night temperature range between 72-80 °F. | If necessary, use reptile heating pads under tank for 24-hour heat. | Alternately, a ceramic heat emitter can be used and is especially versatile, as it can be used at all times without disrupting the tegus photoperiod. | This species requires moderate to high levels of humidity for proper shedding. | Frequent misting of the tank is recommended. | The best and most common substrate for tegus is cypress mulch, as it holds moisture well and resists mold and decay. | Its life span is about fifteen to twenty years. | This terrestrial species inhabits the tropical rain forests of East and Central South America. | Individuals of this species like dense foliage and forage for food, of which they consume as much as possible before going into hibernation in autumn. | They also exhibit an unusually high level of intelligence among reptiles, along with a high level of physical activity during the wakeful period of the year. | The two most docile and easiest to handle species are the Argentine Black and White Tegu and the Red Tegu. | Additionally, a new variety has been recently introduced, called the Blue Tegu due to the tendency of males to become bright blue color upon maturity. | These variations grow to 2 and a half to 4 feet and have a pleasant nature making them good pets. | The Argentine tegu reaches lengths of 4 to 5+ feet at maturity. | Males are much larger and heavier than females, and develop jowls as they mature. | The sex of an Argentine tegu can be found by looking at the vent and searching for two raised bump-like features. | Hatchlings are bright green with black markings; the green fades to white within a couple of months. | In captivity, a healthy tegus diet should consist of mice/pinkies, crickets, and assorted fruits and vegetables. | In addition, they need proper housing with UVA and UVB light setups, maintaining a steady enclosure temperature of 75 F – 90 F during the day and just slightly cooler at night. | Because tegus, like all lizards, are exothermic, a temperature gradient will allow them to find the perfect location for their needs, so they also need a spot for basking with a temperature of 100 F – 120 F. | The Gold tegu, also known as Common tegu, black tegu and Columbian tegu, is a species of tegu. | Its scientific name Tupinambis teguixin was long believed to apply to the Argentine Black and White Tegu which is now Tupinambis merianae. | Gold tegus grow to around 80-110 cm with a glossy body, powerful limbs and a thick tail. | They have many black and gold stripes down their body. | Gold tegus live in the tropical forests of northern and central South America. | They feed on insects, invertebrates, small mammals, reptiles and birds,as well as fish. | Tegus naturally go into a hibernation cycle but it has been discovered that this is not needed to maintain their health. ||||||||||||||||}

It belongs to the teiid family.

This tegu is primarily a carnivore.