Blue Tegu Lizard: Where to Buy and Price Comparison

The Blue Tegu, also known as the Tegu Blue, is a captivating reptile that has gained popularity among reptile enthusiasts. Known for its striking blue-gray coloration and unique characteristics, this lizard species is both intriguing and challenging to care for. This article delves into the characteristics of the Blue Tegu, provides a detailed pet care guide, where to buy, price comparison, and discusses the challenges of keeping these lizards as pets.

Blue Tegu Lizard Price Comparison
Seller	Price	Shipping Price	Shipping Country	Details	Ratings	Link
MorphMarket (Jesse’s Jungle)	$349	$50 – $100 (Domestic)	USA, Canada, China, Germany, UK, Hong Kong, Japan, Netherlands	Pure Blue 66% Het Albino, Birth 2023, Female, 66% Albino, Blue	5/5	MorphMarket
MorphMarket (Jesse’s Jungle)	$499	$50 – $100 (Domestic)	USA, Canada, China, Germany, UK, Hong Kong, Japan, Netherlands	Blue Ice Albino, Birth 2023, Female, Albino, Blue	5/5	MorphMarket
MorphMarket (Jesse’s Jungle)	$1399	Free shipping	USA, Canada, China, Germany, UK, Hong Kong, Japan, Netherlands	Blue Ice Albino, Birth 2023, Albino, Blue	5/5	MorphMarket
MorphMarket (Jesse’s Jungle)	$1300	Free shipping	USA, Canada, China, Germany, UK, Hong Kong, Japan, Netherlands	Blue Ice Albino, Birth 2023, Male, Albino, Blue	5/5	MorphMarket
MorphMarket (Jesse’s Jungle)	$1499	Free shipping	USA, Canada, China, Germany, UK, Hong Kong, Japan, Netherlands	Blue Ice Albino High Black, Birth 2023, Male, Albino, Blue	5/5	MorphMarket
Jesse’s Jungle	$399	$60	USA	High White Pure Blues 66% Het Albino	Not listed	Jesse’s Jungle
Exotic Reptiles Store	$400	Free shipping	USA	Baby Super Blue Tegu	Not listed	Exotic Reptiles Store
New England Reptile Store	$400	$65	USA	2022 Female Blue 66% Het Albino Argentine Tegu	Not listed	New England Reptile Store

Blue Tegu Pet Care Products
Product Category	Essential Items	Description
Habitat	Enclosure	A spacious, secure, and well-ventilated tank (minimum 8x4x4 feet for adults).
	Substrate	Coconut fiber, cypress mulch, or soil for burrowing and humidity control.
	Hides	Multiple hiding spots for security and stress reduction.
	Climbing structures	Branches and rocks for exercise and enrichment.
Heating & Lighting	Basking lamp	Provides a basking spot with temperatures of 95-110°F.
	UVB lighting	Full-spectrum UVB bulb for calcium absorption and overall health.
	Thermostat and hygrometer	Devices to monitor and control temperature and humidity levels.
Feeding	Insect food	Crickets, mealworms, and roaches as staple foods.
	Protein sources	Cooked eggs, lean meats, and occasional fish.
	Fruits and vegetables	Variety of chopped fruits and vegetables for a balanced diet.
	Calcium and vitamin supplements	Powdered supplements to ensure proper nutrition and prevent deficiencies.
Hydration	Water dish	A large, shallow dish for drinking and soaking.
	Humidifier or misting system	To maintain humidity levels of 60-80%.
Cleaning Supplies	Disinfectants	Reptile-safe cleaning solutions for regular habitat maintenance.
	Waste removal tools	Scoopers or tongs for removing waste and uneaten food.
Healthcare	Veterinary contact	Information for a reptile-experienced veterinarian for regular check-ups and emergencies.
	First aid kit	Basic supplies including antiseptic, bandages, and tweezers for minor injuries.

Blue Tegu Lizard Characteristics
Characteristic	Description
Scientific Name	Salvator merianae
Size	3 to 4.5 feet in length
Weight	10 to 20 pounds
Lifespan	15 to 20 years
Coloration	Blue-gray to dark blue with black markings
Diet	Omnivorous (insects, fruits, vegetables, small animals)
Habitat	Requires large enclosures with ample space for burrowing and climbing
Temperature	Basking spot: 95-110°F; Ambient temperature: 75-85°F
Humidity	60-80%
Temperament	Generally docile and can become tame with regular handling
Activity Level	Diurnal (active during the day)
Special Needs	Requires UVB lighting and a varied diet to prevent nutritional deficiencies

Characteristics of the Blue Tegu

Tegu Blue Physical Appearance

The Blue Tegu is known for its distinct blue-gray coloration, which sets it apart from other Tegu species. They can grow to be quite large, with adults reaching lengths of 3 to 4.5 feet and weighing between 10 to 20 pounds. Their bodies are robust, with powerful limbs and a long tail that aids in balance and mobility. The scales are smooth, giving them a sleek appearance.

Tegu Blue Behavior and Temperament

Blue Tegus are diurnal, meaning they are active during the day. They are generally docile and can become quite tame with regular handling. However, they require consistent interaction to maintain their docility. In the wild, they are solitary creatures, but they can adapt to captivity if provided with proper care and environment.

Pet Care Guide for Blue Tegu

Tegu Blue Housing

Enclosure

A Blue Tegu requires a spacious reptile enclosure to thrive. For adults, a minimum enclosure size of 8x4x4 feet is recommended. The enclosure should be secure, well-ventilated, and escape-proof. It should also provide enough space for the Tegu to move around, burrow, and explore.

Substrate

Choosing the right substrate is crucial for maintaining proper humidity levels and allowing the Tegu to exhibit natural behaviors. Suitable substrates include coconut fiber, cypress mulch, or a soil mix. These substrates help retain moisture and are safe for burrowing.

Hides and Climbing Structures

Providing multiple hiding spots is essential to help the Tegu feel secure. These can be simple structures like logs, rocks, or commercially available hides. Additionally, including climbing structures such as branches and rocks can offer enrichment and exercise opportunities.

Heating and Lighting

Temperature

Blue Tegus require a basking spot with temperatures ranging from 95-110°F. The ambient temperature in the enclosure should be maintained between 75-85°F. Using a thermostat can help regulate these temperatures effectively.

Lighting

UVB lighting is essential for Blue Tegus as it aids in calcium absorption and overall health. A full-spectrum UVB bulb should be used, and it should be replaced every 6-12 months, depending on the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Diet

Staple Foods

Blue Tegus are omnivorous and require a varied diet. Their diet should include insects such as crickets, mealworms, and roaches. These can be dusted with calcium and vitamin supplements to ensure proper nutrition.

Protein Sources

In addition to insects, Tegu Blue can be fed lean meats, cooked eggs, and occasional fish. These should be offered in moderation and should not constitute the majority of their diet.

Fruits and Vegetables

Fruits and vegetables should also be included in their diet. Suitable options include berries, apples, pears, leafy greens, and squash. These should be chopped into manageable pieces to prevent choking.

Hydration

A large, shallow water dish should be provided for drinking and soaking. The water should be changed daily to maintain cleanliness. Additionally, maintaining humidity levels between 60-80% is crucial for their health. This can be achieved using a humidifier or misting system.

Blue Tegu Cleaning and Maintenance

Regular cleaning of the enclosure is essential to prevent the buildup of bacteria and parasites. Use reptile-safe disinfectants to clean the enclosure, water dishes, and any decor. Waste should be removed daily, and a thorough cleaning should be done at least once a month.

Tegu Blue Healthcare

Veterinary Care

Regular check-ups with a reptile-experienced veterinarian are essential to monitor the health of your Blue Tegu. They can help identify any potential health issues early and provide guidance on proper care.

First Aid Kit

Having a basic first aid kit is important for addressing minor injuries. This kit should include antiseptic, bandages, and tweezers. In case of more serious injuries, immediate veterinary attention is required.

Challenges of Keeping Blue Tegu as Pets

Size and Space Requirements

One of the main challenges of keeping a Blue Tegu is their size and the space they require. Potential owners must ensure they have enough room to accommodate a large enclosure and the space needed to allow the Tegu to roam and explore.

Diet and Nutrition

Providing a varied and balanced diet can be challenging. It requires sourcing different types of food and ensuring they are fresh and properly prepared. Additionally, supplements are necessary to prevent nutritional deficiencies.

Temperature and Humidity Control

Maintaining the correct temperature and humidity levels can be difficult, especially in regions with fluctuating climates. It requires constant monitoring and adjustment to ensure the environment is suitable for the Tegu.

Behavioral Needs

Tegu Blue requires regular handling and interaction to remain tame. This demands a significant time commitment from the owner. Without proper socialization, they can become aggressive and difficult to handle.

Potential Health Issues

Like all reptiles, Blue Tegus are susceptible to certain health issues, including metabolic bone disease, parasites, and respiratory infections. Regular veterinary care and proper husbandry practices are essential to prevent these problems.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How big do Blue Tegu get?

Blue Tegus typically grow to be 3 to 4.5 feet in length and can weigh between 10 to 20 pounds. Their large size requires spacious enclosures and proper care.

2. What do Blue Tegu eat?

Blue Tegus are omnivorous and eat a variety of foods, including insects like crickets and mealworms, lean meats, eggs, fruits, and vegetables. Their diet should be varied to ensure balanced nutrition, supplemented with calcium and vitamins.

3. Where is the Blue Tegu from?

The Blue Tegu is native to South America, specifically found in countries like Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay. They inhabit a variety of environments, including forests, savannas, and wetlands.