As if all of 2020 hasn’t been challenging enough, Georgians can now add four-foot-long lizards to their list of things to worry about. An invasive species of lizard is threatening native Georgia wildlife, and let’s just say, these aren’t your average lizards. The Department of Natural Resources has a few things we should all know about these lizards and what to do when you spot one in Georgia.

The black and white tegus are lizards from Argentina. They are an invasive species of lizard that is threatening wildlife in southeastern Georgia.
Flickr Muchaxo
Specifically, Toombs and Tattnall counties should be aware, as this is where the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has said these lizards have been spotted.
According to the DNR website, these aren’t your average 4-inch lizards that tuck away in plants and bushes.
Flickr Bernard DUPONT
Tegus can grow up to four feet in length and weigh over ten pounds—not to mention they can run up to 20 miles-per-hour.

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While the species is considered non-threatening to human beings, they are considered very threatening to Georgia wildlife.
Flickr Bernard DUPONT
Tegus eat eggs of ground-nesting birds, other reptiles, and many protected species.
The DNR is hoping that early detection can prevent any catastrophe, which is why they’ve set up a way for Georgians to report if they see the lizards dead or alive in their area.
Flickr Bernard DUPONT
It is also suggested that in order to prevent tegus from coming around, make sure to keep pet food inside, fill holes in your yard, and clear out brush piles or debris that tegus might use as shelter.

If you come across tegus in the wild, either dead or alive, the DNR is asking that you take a photo and report it right away. You can either email gainvasives@dnr.ga.gov or call (478) 994-1438. You can also report it online by clicking here.

So, what do you think about these lizards in Georgia? Have you come across one in the wild? Share with us your thoughts in the comments section! Or if you want to find out more about these lizards, check out the Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Division’s website.

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