If you’re from Florida then you are likely familiar with many of the invasive species that have been brought to light over the years: feral hogs, Burmese pythons, and lionfish, just to name a few. However, there is a new species that is invading Florida that scientists are urging residents to keep an eye out for—the red-headed lizard. Here’s everything you need to know about red-headed lizards in Florida and why they might be a huge problem.

Peter’s rock agama lizard, also known as the red-headed lizard, is an invasive species that scientists say originated from Africa.
Flickr Melissa McMasters
However, as of late, this species of lizard has been multiplying and expanding its range in South Florida.
It was said that this lizard species came about in the 1970s through a pet trade and either escaped or were released, which caused them to breed in the wild.
Flickr Florida Fish & Wildlife / Carol Lyn Parrish
With new reports of the red-headed lizards seen as far south as Big Pine Key, scientists are urging Floridians to report when they see these reptiles.

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Why? Because Peter’s rock agama lizards are considered invasive—they love to eat insects, including butterflies.
Flickr Tambako The Jaguar
The problem, however, is that South Florida has a large endangered butterfly species population, with many living where this lizard would prefer to spend time.
While scientists are saying they don’t see this lizard as being too big of a threat compared to, say, the Burmese or the tegu, they still are looking for help to learn more about it and its whereabouts.
Flickr Tee La Rosa
These red-headed lizards are very colorful, with bright orange or red heads, and they can grow to be about a foot long.
They tend to stay in urbanized areas rather than in secluded places like the Everglades, so there is a chance you might see one hanging out on a rock in South Florida.
Flickr Jim Culp
If you do see Peter’s rock agama lizards, please make sure to report your sighting through the EDD Maps website here.

Have you spotted any red-headed lizards in Florida? Share with us your thoughts in the comments section! Or if you want more information about this invasive species, check out the EDD website here.

Want to learn about more creepy crawlies in Florida? Check out our previous article for a list of Sunshine State bugs that’ll send chills down your spine.

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