Tegu Care

Tegu Care Guide

Published: February 6th, 2024

Housing:

Enclosure Requirements:

Argentine tegus are large lizards, and their enclosure must reflect their size and activity level. A recommended enclosure size is 8’ x 4’ x 4’ frontopening reptile enclosure. This provides ample space for them to move, explore, and exercise their natural behaviors.

Heating and Lighting:

1. Four ceramic socket lamp mounts with 175w PAR38 halogen flood bulbs are essential for creating a proper thermal gradient.
2. Incorporate four plugin lamp dimmers to control the heat output.
3. Provide 46 sq ft of flagstone or slate tile for a basking area.
4. Install two 46” T5 HO desert UVB bulbs (Arcadia or Zoo Med brand) in fixtures with reflectors.
5. Supplement with a 3648” 60007000K LED or fluorescent plant light to ensure proper lighting.

Temperature Monitoring:

Utilize a digital thermometer/hygrometer device with probes (2 units) and an infrared thermometer (“temperature gun”) for accurate temperature monitoring.

Environmental Enrichment:

Enhance the enclosure with environmental enrichment items such as caves, logs, thick branches, and plants. These additions create a more stimulating and engaging environment for the tegu.

Substrate:

Use 6” or more of naturalistic substrate to allow for digging and burrowing. This substrate should mimic the tegu’s natural habitat.

Download the Caresheet |

Care Sheet

Diet and Feeding:

Feeding Tools

Softtipped feeding tweezers (12”)
Adequately sized food and water dishes

Supplements

Provide a calcium powder supplement with low or no D3.
Include a multivitamin powder supplement to ensure nutritional balance.

Other Equipment:

Temperature Control:

- Surge protector with a digital timer for controlling lighting and heating elements.

Hydration:

- Use a 12 gallon capacity pressure sprayer for maintaining humidity and providing drinking water.

Hideout and Shelter:

- Offer a reptile hideout/cave sized according to your tegu for security and comfort.

General Care:

Argentine tegus require diligent care due to their size and activity level. Regular monitoring of temperature, humidity, and a wellbalanced diet is essential. Adequate space and environmental enrichment are crucial for their wellbeing.

Note: Ensure that all equipment is properly secured, and the enclosure is escapeproof, as tegus are strong and may attempt to explore beyond their enclosure.