Tegu Care

What is a Tegu?

A Tegu is a advanced-keeper lizard from South America — Argentina. Adults reach 3–5 ft (males larger; females typically 3–3.5 ft) and can live 15–20 years in captivity — a long-term commitment. A highly intelligent, dog-like monitor-class lizard requiring a very large custom enclosure, extremely high basking temps, and years of socialization — rewarding for experienced keepers but a serious long-term commitment.

What size enclosure does a Tegu need?

The minimum enclosure for an adult Tegu is 8×4×4 ft (32 sq ft floor space minimum for a single adult; custom builds or converted rooms preferred). Bigger is always better — Tegus benefit from extra space to thermoregulate and express natural behaviours.

What you need:

1. Secure, well-ventilated enclosure — screen top or side ventilation; tight-fitting lid.
2. Thermostat-controlled basking lamp — dimmer or proportional thermostat; never a heat rock.
3. Warm and cool hides — at least one hide on each end of the thermal gradient.
4. Water bowl — shallow, heavy-bottomed; changed daily.
5. Appropriate substrate — species-appropriate depth; moist hide in one corner.

What temperature does a Tegu need?

Provide a basking spot of 125–135°F and a cool side of 75–85°F. Measure surface temperature with an infrared thermometer. Use a high-wattage basking bulb on a dimmer or thermostat — never a heat rock. Drop to 65–75°F at night to support digestion and immune function.

Do Tegus need UVB?

Yes — Tegus need high UVB (target UVI 3.0–4.0). Use a T5 HO 12–14% tube (e.g., Arcadia Desert 12% or Zoo Med ReptiSun 10.0) mounted directly above the basking spot. Use the UVB Calculator above to confirm mounting height and basking platform height. Verify with a Solarmeter 6.5 and replace bulbs every 12 months.

What humidity does a Tegu need?

Maintain humidity at 70–80%. High-humidity species benefit from a humid hide and daily misting. Good ventilation is essential — stagnant humid air causes respiratory infections and scale rot. Maintain a moist hide in one corner to support proper shedding. A digital hygrometer is essential.

What do Tegus eat?

Tegus are omnivores — diet composition changes significantly with age. Hatchlings/juveniles: 90% protein (insects, lean ground turkey, mice, eggs), 10% vegetables and fruit. Adults: 60% protein, 30% vegetables, 10% fruit. Protein sources: whole prey (mice, chicks), eggs, lean meats, insects. Plant matter: dark leafy greens, squash, blueberries, strawberries, mango. Calcium supplementation 3× weekly; multivitamin 1× weekly. Do not feed dog/cat food as staple — too high in fat.

Can you house Tegus together?

Generally solitary — house individually. Two females may coexist in a doubled enclosure under experienced supervision; never house two males together; male-female pairs will breed. Allow new animals at least 2 weeks to settle in before handling. Support the body fully — avoid grabbing from above, which triggers a defensive response.

Are Tegus good for beginners?

Tegus are an advanced species for experienced keepers. Research thoroughly, set up the enclosure fully, and source from a reputable captive-bred breeder before acquiring. Animals cost 100–200 (hatchlings from breeders); 200–400 (juveniles/subadults); adult prices vary widely.