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Information on Argentine Tegus?

I've done as much research on these guys as possible. I've talked to my local exotics only store (ONLY deals with exotic reptiles/amphibians, birds,& Insects) The guy that they have me talk to is a Tegu owner, and his are pretty much puppy dogs. He let me handle his full grown male red and he was a doll baby.They also INSIST you handle the animal you plan on purchasing otherwise they will not allow it. He allows his free roam of his house for hours, they leave his dog alone, and he's YET to be bitten by a full grown adult. He has full grown Reds, B&W's, and Blues. He recommends either a Red or a B&W (blues he said in his experience are very skittish). He explained enclosures, lighting, and handling and feeding to me. All something I'm able to handle. And the full grown adult red was heavy, but very calm, and easy to handle. I'm looking to get a male Tegu. They often have Red/B&W crosses available, and they offer a great price. I'm thinking either a Red Male or a B&W Male...(I actually like the larger size range of them compared to the Blues. I'm not crazy on small fast moving adult sized lizards. The babies are quick, but he said most adults are pretty slow moving and docile) Any information would be great..maybe I missed something in my education on them?? Fill me in on your experience.. (Please no "Know what you're getting into" crap. I understand I'll be investing on a lizard that easily lives 15-20 years on average if properly taken care of, and that they reach large lengths and can be pretty heavy. I've done my research. Just asking for info I might have missed. With ANY animal be it a reptile, bird, dog or cat, you can easily be injured severly...so I know the risk of a large animal. I plan on regular handling. )

Public Comments

1. ok i think you are ready for one of them but to make sure you got everythin and since you handled a full grown male one then why not try loaning it for a few days to get your own experience and if anythin crops up you can ask the vet for help or talk to the owner......