Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I have been shopping around for an Argentine B&W tegu and I have finally found some for sale (not an eay task in Canada). However they are already 14 months and have not been regularily worked with, just for feeding and cleaning. They are from Agama International so I know they will be healthy and quality animals. My question is, will they be harder to work with (tame) as sub-adults, am I better off waiting until some babies become available? Have they reached an age where they naturally are more docile? Any input would be much appreciated.

I should also mention I cannot see handle them prior to purchase because they are on the other side of the country.

Thanks,

Sean

Sean,

My argentine b/w also came from agama int. and although I did get him as a baby, he is now close to a year old and as gentle as can be. In your case,I think it all depends on how much time you are willing to spend with the animal. I know many people that have rescued tegus (colombians and argentines) in sub-adult, and adult stages of life, that started out with some aggression problems, but managed to tame them down very nicely, to the point of being "dog tame"
So my advice to you, is to get the sub-adult, if you are willing to go the extra mile, and spend the time necessary. If you need to find some specific ways to do this, then search the archives here in the tegu forum, they are extremely helpful.

Hope this helps....

Ley & Meego

Thanks for your reply. I am confident I can apply enough time and attention to 'tame' him down. I will be recieving him next week, so I will be sure to update on his temperment.

thanks,
Sean

Hey, that's great, congrats!!!!

Ley & Meego

Baby tegus are usually a lot more active and move faster than yearlings or adults. taming an older tegu is actually easier some times. I rescued a pair of 6 year olds that could not be picked up without risk of a bite or tail whip. One year later they are both easily handleable. Time and dedication no matter what the age, is what you need.

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Bennett

www.beardiedragon.com

Thanks for the replies.. I was wondering what techniques you used to tame the biters? I am sure I can use some .

Thanks,
Sean

Nice looking red by the way!

I generally try to hold them or at least pet them daily, before feeding. Try holding them loosely or letting them grab onto your shirt. They are not arboreal so you need to put them at ease so they are not afraid of falling. lots of time and patience. If all else fails I will hold them tight and just speak softly to them. I hold tight until they stop struggling. Then when you are ready you can put them down and give them some food. You must hold on to them until they settle down or they will learn that struggling will make you let go.
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Bennett

www.beardiedragon.com