Reptile & Amphibian Forums

So I visited a new reptile store the other day, and saw a gorgeous looking Argentine Tegu. I've been doing some brief research, and I'm seeing some very positive reports of their behavior.

If I were to get one, the store has a few that I would guess are 10-15". I realize they tend to grow to over four feet or so, and that space could become an issue.

First, how long would it take for a tegu to reach it's full adult length?

And more importantly, what does everyone think of an outdoor enclosure in South Florida? I've read that they need high humidity, which we certainly have, and daytime ambient temps of in the 80's. I think I could get a pretty solid temperature gradient by using shade and ventilation. And if all else fails, I'm sure I could find room for a monster cage indoors.

Just curious to see if anyone has heard any good reports or horror stories regarding outdoor enclosures.

Thanks a lot, I'm getting pretty excited to experience a new herp.

In south florida, a WELL BUILT enclosure works great outdoors.

Well I bought him/her/it today. With the few minutes of handling I've had, it has proved to be a very docile and curious herp. Dispite tensing up initially with my hand in the tank, it seems to be reasonably comfortable with human contact.

First lizard I've ever seen that knows not to fall off the edge of my couch, too.

I've got it in a home built tank that's about 48"x14"x18". I've got a few hides, water bowl, all on basic unfertilized garden dirt. I'm sure I'll pick up a few rocks and branches for climbing and all that.

I'm working out the temperatures... I haven't had enough time with the lights on to get an accurate idea, but they seem to be decent thus far. I seemed to have lost my UV hood... but I'll pick one up tommorow and put in a 15w repti glo 5.0 from Exo Terra.

Looking forward to seeing a bit more of this guy.
--If you have any tips and/or advice, by all means, let me know.

loks like a keeper lol, congrats