Four-toed tegus
A species of Four-toed tegus, Also known as Four-toed Tegu Scientific name : Teius teyou Genus : Four-toed tegus
Four-toed tegus, A species of Four-toed tegus
Also known as:
Four-toed Tegu
Scientific name: Teius teyou
Genus: Four-toed tegus
Content
Description General Info
Photo By PuccaquiereaGaru , used under CC-BY-SA-3.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
Teius teyou, also called the four-toed tegu, is one of the most common South American lizards. It belongs to the genus Teius and the family Teiidae.
General Info
Lifespan
10-15 years
Diet
The diet of four-toed tegus is distinctly insectivorous, primarily feeding on ants, termites, and other small insects. With a dietary preference for ectothermic prey, they also consume spiders, earthworms and occasionally fruits.
Appearance
The four-toed tegus is a medium-sized reptile with a slender body and smooth scales. Its skin is primarily tan, with darker, distinctive tiger-like stripes spanning its body. Juveniles embody a more vibrant coloration compared to adults. The animal possesses a lengthy tail which is approximately one-and-a-half times the length of its body. Notably, no significant differences exist in appearances between genders or subspecies.
Behavior
Four-toed tegus are mostly terrestrial and diurnal, foraging for food such as insects and fruits during the day. They display solitary behavior, only seeking company for mating. These animals are territorial, oftentimes seen flicking their tongues over specific areas to mark boundaries. Their bright coloration serves as protective camouflage in their natural subtropical habitats.
Photo By PuccaquiereaGaru , used under CC-BY-SA-3.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Whiptails Genus
Four-toed tegus Species
Four-toed tegus