New Lizard Species to Try: My Choices, & looking for your ideas

findi

Herpetologist & Author
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Hi, Frank Indiviglio here. I’m a herpetologist, zoologist, and book author, recently retired from a career spent at several zoos, aquariums, and museums, including over20 years with the Bronx Zoo. This article covers the care of some lizards new to the trade and a few old favorites of mine that seem not to get much attention…but should! Pet Lizards: Large Small & Colorful Insectivores | That Reptile Blog
 
ive been looking at tegus lately more specifically black and white argentines, because they're supposed to be the most social, ive heard they are very smart and can be litter trained as well as left out of their tank like a cat. ive also heard they like to knock over garbage cans and can be aggressive if fed live animals so im undecided because of my cats... otherwise id already have one
 
ive been looking at tegus lately more specifically black and white argentines, because they're supposed to be the most social, ive heard they are very smart and can be litter trained as well as left out of their tank like a cat. ive also heard they like to knock over garbage cans and can be aggressive if fed live animals so im undecided because of my cats... otherwise id already have one


Hello,

Tegus are very interesting but need huge enclosures; many adapt well, some remain aggressive, none can be considered social, however. They cannot be left to roam a home...Salmonella risks (spread by feet, skin as animal moves about), fire risk, escape, damage to home etc; and they cannot be kept with or near cats. Some lizards tend to use certain areas to defecate, but they cannot be litter trained. Please let me know if you need more info, best, Frank
 
i was just goinwith what my buddy told me who has 3 that he lets wander, he said theyre litter trained but hes always been a little bit of a BSer so lol guess hes full of it.
 
but yeah i definitely wouldnt want my cats getting bit or worse so unfortunately its not gonna happen for me. i think the tegus he claims to let wander are fully grown, not sure if that affects the situation at all but figured why not mention it.
 
but yeah i definitely wouldnt want my cats getting bit or worse so unfortunately its not gonna happen for me. i think the tegus he claims to let wander are fully grown, not sure if that affects the situation at all but figured why not mention it.


You'll hear many such stories, and there may be some exceptions, but in general never a good idea to have reptiles wandering., best, Frank
 
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