Change in Personality

[Bwindi]

Hello everyone,

I was wondering if a tegu's personality changes as he/she develops. My male gu' (Cricket) was born this summer out of Bobby's Varnyard stock.

I handle him everyday I can (which is almost daily), if he is not already asleep by the time I get home. Lately, I have seen a significant change in mood/personality.

He seems somewhat skittish and (i know this sounds crazy, but I hope other tegu owners would relate) it is like he doesn't get "excited" to see me anymore.

Anyone have some Dr. Phil advice for our friendship?
:hug

I have read places that when they go through sexual maturity they will be a little bonkers. Is it time for that at 5 months old?

 

[Toby_H]

He won't be reaching sexual maturity for over a year, so that's not it...

Arg Tegus generally hibernate/brumate, so it's likely his metabolism is slowing down. As this happens a lot of things change inside of them. Including an overall lack of energy as well as less of a need for food.


Also in response to your question... yes Tegus 'personality' will change as they mature. As juvenals they are usually a bit more jumpy, as in nature at this stage they are commonly prey for larger animals. As they get larger they usually relax a lot, as in the wild they have far fewer preditors and are much more capable of defending themselves.

I can say with confidence my Tegu has 'personality' as well as 'moods'. Sometimes he wants attention, sometimes he wants to be left alone. Sometimes he wants to come out and wonder the house, sometimes he wants to relax in his enclosure. Sometimes when I put him in his travelign bin he walks right in (as if he wants to go out) and sometimes when I put him in his traveling bin he tries to climb out.

 

[Bwindi]

Thanks Toby_H,

I always have reptiles on the brain so I can't help but analyze everything Cricket does. Thanks again for the advice

Fascinating creatures!