Reptiles & Amphibians

Red Tegu

Psst… want to meet a real-life dragon cousin with scales that shimmer like treasure? Come and meet Red Tegu — a treasured resident of our tropical sanctuary in Epping. Stand quietly, watch closely, and you might spot a blink, a stretch, or a cheeky scramble that makes you fall in love in five seconds flat.

Red Tegu

Their story

Every animal at Get To Know Animals is a rescue. Donna and Rob, the founders, give animals a second chance — there are no breeding programmes here.

Behind every smile is a story. Animals like Red Tegu often arrive because a home changed, a rescue needed space, or someone realised wild beauty deserves expert care. We promise warmth, the right food, enrichment and keepers who know each personality. When a child presses their nose to the glass and whispers ‘hello’, that second chance becomes a lifelong memory — for them and for Red Tegu.

The red tegu is a lizard native to western Argentina, Bolivia and Paraguay. It is sold in the pet trade around the world due to its ease of care and relatively docile nature. Adults often remember: Species of lizard. At Get To Know Animals we turn those wild facts into daily care — the right heat, humidity, UV where needed, climbing or digging space, and food that matches what Red Tegus evolved to eat.

It costs over £35,000 every month to feed, heat and care for 300+ animals. UVB bulbs alone can cost £20–£40 each and need regular replacing; add heat mats, live feeders, vet checks and tropical electricity and one reptile room becomes a serious bill. Adopting Red Tegu, sponsoring a meal, funding the wish list or joining Patreon isn’t ‘extra’ — it’s how Red Tegu eats next Tuesday when the weather is quiet and the till is slow.

You can help today: adopt Red Tegu, buy a treat, play Get To Feed Animals, or become a monthly patron. Every pound is love you can measure in full bowls, warm lamps and wagging (or flicking) tails.