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Argentine Red Tegu
	Red tegu, 8 weeks old
Scientific classification
Kingdom:	Animalia
Phylum:	Chordata
Class:	Reptilia
Order:	Squamata
Suborder:	Lacertilia
Family:	Teiidae
Genus:	Tupinambis
Species:	T. rufescens
Binomial name
	Tupinambis rufescens; (Günther, 1871)
Synonyms
	See text

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The Argentine red tegu, (Tupinambis rufescens), often referred to as simply red tegu, is one the largest species of tegu lizards.

Appearance

As hatchlings, most red tegus display little, if any, red coloration. They are typically brownish green with black strips across their width and several broken white stripes down their length. They develop red coloration as they mature, males usually brighter than females. Adult females can reach 3.5ft in length. Males are significantly larger, reaching up to 4.5ft and developing large jowls.

Growth

The red tegu is a very quickly growing lizard, typically reaching maturity in 2-3 years. It is not uncommon for well-fed juvenile red tegus to experience growth spurts of more than an inch per week.

Diet

The red tegu is a very opportunistic feeder. Wild specimens will eat a variety of plant and animal matter: fruits, vegetables, insects, rodents, birds, and fish. Red tegus raised in captivity will often be more picky eaters, especially as juveniles, and may prefer a diet of mostly meat.