Red tegu
A species of Salvator Scientific name : Salvator rufescens Genus : Salvator
Red tegu, A species of Salvator
Scientific name: Salvator rufescens
Genus: Salvator
Content
Description General Info
Description
The red tegu (Salvator rufescens) is a lizard native to western Argentina, Bolivia and Paraguay. It is sold in the pet trade around the world because of its relatively docile nature and because it is comparatively easy to keep.
General Info
Lifespan
20-25 years
Diet
Red tegu is primarily an omnivore, exhibiting a diverse diet that heavily includes a wide range of insects, fruits, and flowers. It partakes in active foraging, especially for arthropods and gastropods, while also incorporating vegetable matter, demonstrating a preference for tender shoots, blossoms and ripe fruits.
Appearance
Red tegu is a large, robust reptile, reaching up to 2.1 meters in length. Its body thrives in an elongated, bulky shape with a broad head, equipped with distinctive dull-orange to brick-red coloration. Its scaly skin has dark patches or bands that fade as the animal matures. This pattern is more pronounced on the tail. Juveniles are notably brighter than the dull-adults. The species is sexually monomorphic, showing no significant differences between males and females.
Behavior
Red tegu is a solitary and territorial reptile with daytime activity patterns. It's known for robust feeding behavior, hunting various prey due to its carnivorous diet. This species exhibits unique defensive behavior, hissing, jaw gaping, and tail whipping if threatened. Its survival techniques involve hiding in crevices or burrows, adapting to its arid and semi-arid habitats.
