Also known as the Argentinean tegu, the big headed tegu, or the black and white tegu, the giant tegu is a gentle giant lizard. Don’t confuse an Argentinean tegu with a Columbian tegu — the Columbian is somewhat smaller and less docile than the Argentinean variety.
These lizards truly are gigantic — an adult black and white tegu can reach four feet or longer (including the tail). The whole body sports a pattern of white and black dots and stripes, making the giant tegu a distinctive pet. Despite the intimidating size of the giant tegus, these lizards can be very docile and tame, especially if the lizard has been handled regularly from a young age. Other tegus are not quite as docile as the giant.
Your Argentinean black and white tegu will need a large and secure habitat. Young lizards can live in a large aquarium with a locking lid, but adults will need an extra-large cage. Plan on six feet of length and three feet of width with two feet of height — your tegu won’t do much climbing. Tegus can tolerate cooler temperatures than other lizards, but will be most comfortable with daytime temperatures ranging from eighty to 85 degrees Fahrenheit and a basking spot between 100 and 110 degrees Fahrenheit. Overnight temperatures can be somewhat cooler.
Argentinean black and white tegus are diggers. Choose an absorbent, easy to clean substrate like cypress mulch, orchid bark, or eucalyptus mulch. Paper is easy to clean but generally prevents burrowing. Avoid carpeting (which can tangle toes and nails) and small substrate that can be eaten. A humid hiding spot will help ease shedding; a large, shallow water dish can be used for drinking and soaking.
Young tegus can eat mainly crickets and other feeder insects; adults can eat frozen, pre-killed mice. Supplement the diet with fresh fruits and vegetables, canned dog food, and eggs. Be sure to feed your lizard from a bowl or using tongs so you don’t accidentally get bitten!
Choosing an Argentinean black and white tegu for a pet is a long-term commitment — these lizards live between ten and twelve years in captivity.