Diet: the red tegu is an opportunistic omnivore that feeds on vegetation, fruits, insects, rodents, birds and fish.
Reproduction: Oviparous and females can lay 10 to 30 eggs. The incubation period is 58 to 60 days. The cubs reach sexual maturity at 2 – 3 years of age.
Distribution and Habitat: Western Argentina, Bolivia and Paraguay. They live in arid areas.
Behavior: In nature, red tegus are diurnal and terrestrial. During the brumation period, they bury themselves and remain largely dormant and can last up to 7 months, but most often they do so in winter. They are avid diggers and climbers.
Conservation Status: Least concern.
Scientific name: Salvator rufescens
Class: Reptilia
Order: Squamata
Family: Teiidae
Dimensions: 91 – 140 cm long
Weight: 3.6 – 4.5 kg
Longevity: 12 – 20 years in captivity