Argentine Black and White Tegu Natural History
Size
The Argentine Black and White Tegu can grow to between 92-140cm long with males being larger than females, and they can weigh between 2.5-22kg.
Habitat and Distribution
This is a diurnal reptile that lives on the ground and is found in the eastern and central parts of South America including Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil and Paraguay. They are tolerant of a range of habitats including tropical rainforests, savannahs and semi-deserts.
Age
The lifespan of an Argentine Black and White Tegu in the wild is 15 to 20 years but can live longer in captivity.
Diet
Argentine Black and White Tegus are typically omnivorous. As they grow they become more predatory and often seek out eggs from nests of other reptiles or birds.
Groups and Breeding
They are primarily solitary animals and their breeding season starts after their hibernation in spring. Females can lay up to 30 eggs and during incubation females stay with their nests and are very aggressive towards any predators. The hatchlings are approximately 8 inches and stay with their mother for some time until they can take care of themselves. They are sexually mature around 3 years of age.
Threats
The Argentine Black and White Tegu is often hunted for its meat, skin and for the international pet trade. The IUCN Red List classes this species as Least Concern.
Interesting Facts
Unlike other reptile species which are cold-blooded, the Argentine Black and White Tegu is the only known reptile to be partly endothermic. This tegu can also partly drop its tail to avoid predators. However, the tail does not regrow.
The Argentine Black and White Tegu During Your Day Out in Kent
This is a new species to the park in 2023 with the opening of our new Reptile House and was born in summer 2021. This male is the only Argentine Black and White Tegu we currently have at the park. He can be found next door to the Reticulated Pythons.