Tractable Tegus

Ever think about having a tegu as a pet?  You probably wouldn't unless you're really into reptiles!  A tegu is a lizard - and one of the larger lizards growing up to over four feet long.

Argentinian Black and White Tegu - Source:  Wikipedia

There are seven species of tegu and they are only found in South America. Tegus are considered very intelligent and the ones that are pets can become quite attached to their owners.

Source:  Wikipedia

Tegus enjoy a mixed diet of fruits and vegetables, insects like mealworms and crickets as well as an occasional mouse or fish.  However, the red tegu is mostly herbivorous and the Argentinian black and white tegu is carnivorous as a juvenile and becomes mostly herbivorous as an adult.  Tegus do hibernate during the winter in the wild and can live 15 to 20 years. Tegus are burrowers and have sharp teeth and claws for digging.

Unfortunately, tegus are a major part of the reptile leather trade, as well as the pet trade.  I prefer seeing tegus in the wild rather than in a cage or as a wallet in my purse!  For a video of a tegu, click here.