Owning a red tegu is not something that should be taken lightly. These chameleons are very large and require cages that not everyone can build. If you are an experienced reptile enthusiast and want to give it a try. Learn all the basics first. For its size, this chameleon is actually quite calm and good-natured, so this might be a good starting point for you. If you’ve always wanted to own a large reptile, They require special care and have a long lifespan, so make sure you’re up to the task.
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Do Red Tegus Make Good Pets?
Bolivia, Argentina, and Paraguay are some of the South American countries where the red tegus is native. No matter where you live These large tropical animals need heat because they prefer hot and humid conditions. For the rightful owner Red tegus can make excellent pets. Considering how large these chameleons are, It is important to understand how much space these chameleons need. However, don’t let their large size intimidate you. These chameleons are actually quite peaceful creatures and require only moderate care.
Red Tegu Appearance
Red Tegu come in a variety of reds. This can be deduced from its name. However, there are differences between the genders. Although the hatchlings are usually colorless, But when reaching reproductive age They also begin to develop pigment. Male tegus are dark red and become almost completely erect as they age. They have heavy, strong bodies and are about 5 feet tall. One good way to differentiate gender is to look for patterns at the female level rather than at the male level. When fully grown Females average about 4 feet tall, which makes them slightly shorter than males.
How to Take Care of Red Tegus
Caring for your tegu’s health and well-being depends on creating a cage with all the necessary components. Let’s talk about everything that matters.
Habitat, Tank Conditions & Setup
To make your red tegu strong You need to provide it with a suitable habitat. This is the main component of your setup.
Tank
Red tegus are not very large when they are young. Still, they grew quickly. Fully developed adults need a cage that is at least twice as long. Males can grow up to 5 feet tall, so you should be prepared for their adult size. Most people decide to dedicate an entire room or outside of their cage to their Tegu friend. If there is enough warmth and humidity. They will thrive in a cage. They also need to be completely protected from drafts, no matter how small.
Lighting
Red deer must use UVB light to absorb nutrients from the light into their skin for maximum health. They need consistently dark nights after exposure to at least 12 to 14 hours of UVB sunlight each day.
Heating (Temperature & Humidity)
So that the red tegus can control its body temperature. A wide range of temperatures is required. They need a constant temperature in their cage between 75 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. with a maximum temperature of 100 degrees Fahrenheit for the sunbathing area. The humidity level should be between 70% and 90%.
Substrate
Red tegus needs a variety of substrate that can retain moisture well. A combination of cypress mulch, coconut fibers, dirt and sand is the best choice.
Feeding Your Red Tegu
Red tegu are opportunistic and greedy eaters. They benefit from a variety of meats, fruits, and vegetables. This is because they are omnivores. Be careful because this reptile will eat anything that can move in its mouth. These animals need more calcium in their diet. Just like other reptiles. To help develop strong bones You must purchase calcium supplements and administer the recommended dosage according to the label. Teenage tegus birds require a special diet because they need additional protein for growth. The main food source is earthworms and dubia cockroaches. Your Tegu will need additional vegetables in its diet as it ages. However, you need to increase your protein intake. Can be fed to fish, eggs, chickens and adult red tegus rats. Large insects are still an option.
Keeping Your Red Tegu Healthy
If you don’t have an exotics veterinarian in your area You should see a veterinarian before bringing your red tegu home. These chameleons require special care that general or specialized veterinary clinics cannot provide. Although your lizard doesn’t need frequent veterinary visits, But in the event of illness or unexpected problems You should see emergency medical attention. Chameleons often do not show symptoms until the disease has progressed.
Lifespan
Your chameleon will live for 15 to 20 years if it is healthy and free of any health problems.
Breeding
Red tegus in the wild will begin breeding as soon as sprouting ends. Therefore, they begin their natural reproductive cycle in March. During this time it is about two weeks. Males will actively search for females. The protection of the female’s ovaries is very strong. You should avoid him when he lies down. And be careful not to let other birds disturb him. He can really hurt things and will be very possessive. The success rate of eggs in a single clutch is about 50%. Usually, females deposit 30 eggs in a single nest. If all other factors remain constant, eggs will be incubated approximately sixty days before hatching.
Are Red Tegus Friendly? Our Handling Advice
The fact that red tegus are calm and sociable is one of their attractive qualities. Moreover, there is almost never any hostility between cage mates. They can grow to very large sizes. Weighing up to 15 pounds, this will require you to always handle it with extra caution. Your big man can get seriously injured with just one drop. Tegus are so friendly that they may bite and rub you. Always remember to wash your hands thoroughly after touching anything. This is because it may harbor harmful bacteria such as salmonella.
Shedding & Brumation: What to Expect
Red tegus sheds some Not all at once Not like other reptiles Some of the skin is ready to peel off when you see patches of raised, pale scales. To help make the shedding process easier It is very important to wet them when you see them start to do so. Instead of interfering Let the flow happen naturally. Removing dander can cause infection or discomfort. Usually from October to March. During the cold months Red tegus will develop bruises. During this time They will become more lethargic, lethargic and lethargic.
How Much Do Red Tegus Price?
Re tegus are generally not very expensive considering their size. They generally cost between $250 and $350, however, this depends on the situation. The amount can be more, less, or even free.
