Differences in Red and B/W tegus?

[Dirkthejerk41]

Hi all, I know there is probably already multiple threads on this, but I am curious if there is a difference between red and b/w tegus? (besides the color, obviously). Is their care, temperament, and size the same? I have done much research on it, but can't really find any solid answers, so I would prefer to hear from people with first hand experience with both. (I am thinking about rescuing a red tegu pretty soon). Thank you!

 

[TeguBuzz]

Size all depends on the individual tegus. From my experience, I have seen most red males get larger than the black and whites. Then again I have seen males of the same size.

Care wise I'd say they're the same but I've read that reds can use more fruit intake in their diet to aid in better shedding - seeing as many in captivity often experience shedding problems. Temperament depends on the individual tegu and how it is cared for.

 

[Dirkthejerk41]

Well yes I know that it's on an individual basis, but I mean is there a difference between red and b/w as in how people say there is a difference between colombian and argentine?

 

[TeguBuzz]

They're pretty much the same, from what I've seen. Except for that one is merianae and the other is rufescens.

 

[chelvis]

Like TeguBuzz said, in general reds get longer and larger but then again there are some big black and whites as well. Reds are prone more to shedding issues and its thought to be more diet related over humidity related, just make sure there are a lot of fresh fruits in there diet and keep the humidity up.

Other wise caging, care, taming etc... is all about the same and should be adjusted for the individual.

 

[Dirkthejerk41]

Okay, that sounds cool! My Colombian won't touch fruit so that should be a neat difference.

 

[laurarfl]

That is so funny, my red male and both of my Colombians adore fruit. Red males seem to get "chunky". I hear people say one is more tame, bigger, etc. But like the others said, I think it more of individual differences in tegus.

 

[Dirkthejerk41]

ive gotten him to eat fruit before, but only if it was smothered in turkey hahaha

Very cool, looking forward to my red. I kinda like how they have that chunky appearance