Pets have become increasingly popular in recent years, and with so many different species to choose from, it can be hard to decide which one is right for you. Tegu and bearded dragons are two of the most popular exotic lizards that make great pets.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the similarities and differences between tegus and bearded dragons, to help you make an informed decision when selecting a pet.
Tegus and bearded dragons are both reptiles that have unique personalities and can make wonderful companions. They have their own individual needs and behaviors that must be taken into consideration when selecting the right pet for you.
We will explore the diet, habitat, and behavior of both species, as well as their care needs and life expectancy so that you can make an informed decision about which one is right for you.
What Are The Similarities Between Tegu And Bearded Dragon?
Both the tegu and the bearded dragon have relatively similar sizes; the tegu typically grows to about 2.5 feet in length, while the bearded dragon ranges between 2 and 3 feet. Both lizards also have similar lifespans – they can both live to be 10 to 15 years old. Lastly, both reptiles prefer warmer climates and habitats with plenty of vegetation.
Size
Despite their different appearances, tegus and bearded dragons have many similarities. One of the most notable similarities is their size; both species are of medium size. To explore this further, let’s look at the size of tegus and bearded dragons in more detail:
- Tegus:
- Adults can reach up to 4 feet in length
- Adults weigh between 1 and 4 pounds
- Hatchlings are between 3 and 4 inches in length
- Bearded Dragons:
- Adults can reach up to 24 inches in length
- Adults weigh between 9 and 18 ounces
- Hatchlings are between 1 and 2 inches in length
As you can see, both tegus and bearded dragons are considered medium-sized animals, with adults reaching similar lengths, though tegus are heavier. Furthermore, both species have similar-sized hatchlings, though tegus are slightly larger. Thus, size is one of the most common similarities between tegus and bearded dragons.
Lifespan
Continuing to discuss similarities between tegu and bearded dragons, lifespan is another trait that both these species share in common. Both tegu and bearded dragons can be expected to live between 10-15 years in captivity.
The difference in the age of the two species is that bearded dragons reach their full size and maturity much sooner than Tegu. Bearded dragons reach maturity around two years of age, while tegus reach maturity around five years of age.
Further, the lifespan of these species can be impacted by factors like diet, living conditions, and health. To ensure a long and healthy life, it is crucial to provide the right diet, living conditions, and health care for both Tegu and bearded dragons.
Below is a list of factors that influence the lifespan of tegus and bearded dragons:
- Diet
- Ensure that tegus and bearded dragons get the proper nutrition that they need from their diet.
- Provide a variety of proteins, fruits, and vegetables.
- Avoid overfeeding, as it can lead to health issues.
- Living Conditions
- Ensure that tegus and bearded dragons live in the proper environment.
- Provide a clean and spacious enclosure.
- Ensure that the temperature and humidity are within the optimal range for the species.
- Health Care
- Regularly inspect the tegu and bearded dragon for any signs of illness or injury.
- Provide veterinary care when needed.
- Provide proper parasite control.
By following these guidelines, owners of tegus and bearded dragons can ensure that their pets have a long and healthy life.
Habitat
In addition to their similar sizes, tegus, and bearded dragons also have similar habitat preferences. Both animals are typically found in warm, arid areas and prefer to live in areas with plenty of sunlight and rocks to hide in or on.
They both also require access to a water source and plenty of space to roam. Below are the specific details for their respective habitats:
- Tegu:
- Lives in tropical rainforest areas of South America
- Prefers humid climates with plenty of shade
- Bearded Dragon:
- Lives in the desert and scrublands of Australia
- Prefers warm climates with plenty of direct sunlight
Tegus and bearded dragons may have different habitats, but they both share a preference for warm, dry climates and plenty of rocks for hiding. They also both need access to a water source and plenty of space to roam. When it comes to their habitat preferences, these two animals have a lot in common.
What Are The Differences Between Tegu And Bearded Dragon?
When it comes to size, tegus are typically larger than bearded dragons, reaching up to 4 feet in length. Temperament-wise, tegus are generally more active and require more frequent handling than bearded dragons. Diet-wise, bearded dragons are omnivores, while tegus tend to be strict carnivores.
Size
While both the tegu and the bearded dragon share similar characteristics, they also have stark differences in size. The tegu is significantly larger than the bearded dragon, and this can affect their respective habitats and care needs. Let’s take a closer look at the size difference between the two reptiles:
- Tegu
- Adults usually range from 3 to 4 feet in length
- Weighs around 6 to 8 pounds
- Needs a significantly larger enclosure to thrive
- Bearded Dragon
- Adults usually range from 18 to 24 inches in length
- Weighs around 400 to 700 grams
- Can thrive in smaller enclosures
It’s clear that tegus are significantly larger than bearded dragons. Because of this, tegus will require larger enclosures to accommodate their size and energy levels. Additionally, they will also need larger and stronger heating lamps than bearded dragons, as tegus will require a higher and more consistent temperature.
Temperament
Although Tegu and Bearded Dragons share some similarities in terms of size and diet, their temperaments are vastly different. Whereas Tegu is more likely to be passive and docile, Bearded Dragons are typically more active and inquisitive. When it comes to interaction with humans, the differences are particularly evident.
Tegu are known for their calm and relaxed demeanor. This leads to them being much more tolerant of being handled and petted by humans.
On the other hand, Bearded Dragons are known to be more skittish and wary of human interaction. They may become startled by sudden movements and can sometimes become aggressive if they feel threatened.
The primary difference between the temperaments of Tegu and Bearded Dragons can be summed up in the following list:
- Tegu:
- Calm and relaxed
- Tolerant of human interaction
- More likely to be docile
- Bearded Dragons:
- Skittish and wary of humans
- More active and inquisitive
- Can become aggressive if threatened
In conclusion, it is clear that while Tegu and Bearded Dragons may share some similarities, their temperaments are quite distinct. Tegu is more likely to be tolerant of human interaction, while Bearded Dragons are more likely to be skittish and wary.
Diet
While Tegu and Bearded Dragons may have many similarities, there are also some differences that set them apart. One of the main differences between the two reptiles is their diet.
Tegus are omnivores and enjoy a wide variety of food. They typically eat a mix of insects, fruits, vegetables, and other small animals. Bearded Dragons, on the other hand, are primarily insectivores and mostly eat crickets, mealworms, and waxworms. They may also eat some fruits and vegetables as a supplement.
The dietary needs of the two reptiles can be further broken down into the following categories:
- Tegu
- Insects
- Fruits
- Vegetables
- Other small animals
- Bearded Dragon
- Crickets
- Mealworms
- Waxworms
- Fruits and vegetables (supplemental)
It is important to note that the dietary requirements of each species can vary depending on individual needs and preferences. Therefore, it is important to research and understand the specific dietary requirements of each species before making a decision.
Tegu Vs Bearded Dragon: Physical Appearance
It is clear that tegus and bearded dragons have many distinct differences, and their physical appearance is certainly no exception. The most obvious difference between the two reptiles is their size, as the tegu is much larger than the bearded dragon.
The tegu can reach up to four feet in length and can weigh up to eight pounds, while the bearded dragon is usually no larger than two feet in length and weighs an average of five to seven ounces.
In terms of coloration, the tegu is usually black and white in color, though some may have brown or red markings. The bearded dragon has a wide range of colors, from yellow, orange, and red, to brown and tan, depending on the species. The tegu also has a triangular head, while the bearded dragon has a more rounded head.
In addition, the tegu has a long, thick tail, and its body is covered in scales. The bearded dragon, on the other hand, has a flat, spiny body and a thin tail. The tegu is also equipped with sharp claws, while the bearded dragon has short, rounded claws.
Both the tegu and the bearded dragon have long tongues, but the tegu’s tongue is much thicker and more powerful.
Overall, the differences in physical appearance between the tegu and the bearded dragon are quite obvious. While both species are considered reptiles, it is clear that they are quite distinct from one another in terms of size, coloration, head shape, body shape, and claws.
Tegu Vs Bearded Dragon: Behavior
Though physical appearance is one way to differentiate between a tegu and a bearded dragon, their behavior also offers some clues. As cold-blooded creatures, both the tegu and the bearded dragon will bask in the sunlight or seek shelter in the shade to maintain their body temperature. However, their behavior diverges in other ways.
Tegus are a bit more aggressive than bearded dragons, and they are more likely to bite if they feel threatened. They also require more natural space than bearded dragons to roam and explore, and they are more active during the day. They can be trained to take food from your hand, making them more interactive and docile pets.
Bearded dragons, on the other hand, are a bit more laid-back and are generally content to just sit around. They are less likely to bite than tegus and are more docile than other types of lizards.
They are also more likely to come to you or your family for attention, as they are more social than Tegus. Bearded dragons can also be trained to take food from your hand, making them wonderful pets for both adults and children.
Tegu Vs Bearded Dragon: Diet
Now that we’ve discussed behavior, let’s look at the diets of the tegu and the bearded dragon. When feeding your pet, it is important to know what they require to stay healthy. Both the tegu and bearded dragons are omnivores, meaning that they feed on a variety of meats, vegetables, and fruits.
When it comes to feeding a tegu, it should have a balanced diet of insects, fruits, and vegetables. Insects should make up the bulk of the diet, and the tegu should be given a variety of insects such as crickets and mealworms.
Fruits and vegetables should be given in moderation. Some recommended fruits and vegetables include apples, oranges, carrots, and kale.
Bearded dragons require a similar diet to that of the tegu. They also require a variety of insects, fruits, and vegetables. Insects should make up the bulk of the diet and can include crickets, mealworms, and waxworms.
Fruits and vegetables should be given in moderation and can include apples, oranges, carrots, kale, and other leafy greens.
It is important to keep in mind that both the tegu and the bearded dragon require a balanced diet to stay healthy. It is also important to know that the diet of both these lizards should be supplemented with vitamins and minerals.
By providing a balanced diet and supplementing with vitamins and minerals, pet owners can ensure that their pet is getting the nutrition it needs to stay healthy.
Tegu Vs Bearded Dragon: Enclosure
Now that we have discussed the dietary needs of the tegu and the bearded dragon, let’s look at their ideal enclosure settings. Both lizards need a large enough enclosure so they can move around and feel secure. With this in mind, there are some key differences in their ideal enclosure that must be taken into consideration.
Tegus need an enclosure that is at least 4 feet long, 2 feet wide, and 2 feet tall. They should have plenty of climbing opportunities, including branches, rocks, and other items.
A heat lamp and UVB light should be used to replicate natural sunlight, and a temperature gradient should be maintained to allow the tegu to regulate its body temperature.
Bearded dragons, on the other hand, require an enclosure that is at least 3 feet long, 2 feet wide, and 1.5 to 2 feet tall. They should also have plenty of climbing opportunities, such as branches, rocks, and other items.
They need a heat lamp and UVB light to replicate natural sunlight, and a temperature gradient should be maintained to allow them to regulate their body temperature.
Overall, the enclosure needs of the tegu and the bearded dragon are quite similar, with some minor differences. Both reptiles need plenty of space to move around, plenty of items to climb on, and the right lighting and heat conditions to ensure their overall health. With the right enclosure set up, both reptiles will thrive.
Tegu Vs Bearded Dragon: Lighting
In addition to the enclosure, one other important factor to consider when choosing between a Tegu and a Bearded Dragon is the lighting they need. Proper lighting is essential for reptiles, as it helps them to regulate their body temperature, synthesize Vitamin D, and promote healthy growth and behavior.
Tegus require a lot of UVB lighting to ensure that they stay healthy. UVB bulbs should be replaced every 6 months, and it is also recommended that they have direct access to natural sunlight.
Bearded Dragons, on the other hand, also need UVB lighting but to a lesser degree than Tegus. They are also more tolerant of lower temperatures, so they do not require the same level of lighting to regulate their body temperature.
In addition, Bearded Dragons need a light source that will help them to distinguish the difference between day and night. This is known as a basking light, and it can be either natural or artificial.
Tegus, however, do not need a basking light as they are nocturnal and are most active at night. Therefore, they do not need a light source to help them distinguish between day and night.
Overall, when deciding between a Tegu and a Bearded Dragon, it is important to consider the amount of lighting they need and the type of lighting that is required. Tegus need a lot of UVB lighting and access to natural sunlight, while Bearded Dragons need less UVB lighting and a light source to help them distinguish between day and night.
Tegu Vs Bearded Dragon: Handling
Now that we have discussed the lighting needs of tegus and bearded dragons, let’s move on to the topic of handling. While tegus and bearded dragons can both be handled, there are some key differences worth noting.
First, tegus tend to be more active and may require more time and effort to handle than bearded dragons. Tegus are also more prone to biting, so it is important to exercise caution when handling them. Additionally, tegus may become more aggressive as they age, so it is important to start off handling them in a gentle manner.
Bearded dragons, on the other hand, are more docile and are generally easier to handle. Bearded dragons can be picked up carefully and held for short periods of time.
However, it is important to remember that these animals should only be handled when they are in a calm state. Otherwise, they may become stressed or start to display aggressive behaviors.
Overall, tegus and bearded dragons can both be handled, but it is important to understand the differences between the two so that they can be safely and properly handled.
Tegu Vs Bearded Dragon: Lifespan
Having discussed the handling of both the bearded dragon and tegu, let’s now take a closer look at their respective lifespans. Bearded dragons can live for up to 10 years in captivity, while tegus can live for up to 20 years. This makes Tegus a better long-term commitment for those who are looking to have a pet for many years.
In regards to the health of either reptile, their lifespans can be affected by the type of care they receive. Bearded dragons require a strict diet and regular visits to the vet in order to remain healthy.
Tegus, on the other hand, require less frequent vet visits but need additional attention and care in order to remain healthy. For instance, tegus need a regular supply of fresh fruit and vegetables as part of their diet.
Additionally, tegus need more regular exposure to UVB light than bearded dragons in order to avoid health problems such as metabolic bone disease.
Ultimately, both bearded dragons and tegus can make wonderful pets, but prospective owners should be aware of the differences in their lifespans and care requirements. With the right amount of care, both reptiles have the potential to live long and healthy lives.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the choice between a Tegu and a Bearded Dragon as a pet depends largely on the preferences of the owner. Both reptiles have their own unique characteristics that make them desirable companions.
Tegus are larger and live longer than Bearded Dragons, but they require more attention and space. Bearded Dragons are smaller and require less maintenance, but they have shorter lifespans. Ultimately, both reptiles make great pets and provide their owners with years of entertainment and companionship.
