Colombian Gold Tegu
Common Name: Colombian Gold Tegu
Scientific Name: Tupinambis teguixin
Names: N/A
Locations: London
Diet
Colombian Gold Tegus are omnivorous lizards, feeding on a varied diet that includes insects, small mammals, birds, eggs, fruits, and vegetation.
Average lifespan
In the wild, Colombian Gold Tegus typically live around 15 to 20 years, though their lifespan in captivity may be longer with proper care.
Size
Colombian Gold Tegus are large lizards, with adults reaching lengths of up to 1 to 1.5 meters (3 to 5 feet) from snout to tail tip.
Weight
Adult Colombian Gold Tegus can weigh anywhere from 2 to 5 kilograms (4.4 to 11 pounds), with males generally being larger and heavier than females.
About
Colombian Gold Tegus are native to South America, particularly found in countries such as Colombia, Venezuela, and Brazil. They inhabit various habitats including tropical forests, savannas, and grasslands, where they can find suitable food and shelter.
Size and behavior
Colombian Gold Tegus are diurnal and terrestrial lizards, spending much of their time foraging on the ground for food. They are excellent climbers and swimmers, capable of navigating through dense vegetation and water bodies with ease. Despite their large size and powerful jaws, they are generally shy and docile animals, preferring to avoid confrontations with larger predators.
Diet and nutrition
Colombian Gold Tegus are opportunistic feeders and will consume a wide variety of prey items. In captivity, they can be fed a diet consisting of insects such as crickets, mealworms, and roaches, as well as small mammals, birds, eggs, fruits, and vegetables. Providing a varied diet ensures that they receive the necessary nutrients for growth, development, and overall health.
Conservation status
The conservation status of Colombian Gold Tegus in the wild is currently of least concern. While they may face localized threats from habitat loss, pollution, and hunting in some areas, they are still relatively abundant and widespread throughout their range. However, like many reptile species, they may be impacted by habitat destruction, climate change, and human activities.
Fun fact
Colombian Gold Tegus are known for their strong jaws and powerful bite force, which they use to crush the shells of snails and other hard-shelled prey. They are also capable of vocalizing, producing various sounds such as hissing, grunting, and growling to communicate with other tegus and express their emotions. Additionally, Colombian Gold Tegus are highly intelligent and curious animals, exhibiting complex behaviors such as problem-solving, exploration, and social interaction with conspecifics.
Call or visit your local Reptilia Facility to learn how you can adopt one of these amazing reptiles.
