The Argentine tegu has stormed the Sunshine State, joining a long list of invasive species to descend upon Florida.
Just what are these creatures, and what threat do they pose?
Today, we’re bringing you all the answers.
Let’s get into it!
Florida Has Another Invasive Lizard Species
As if Florida didn’t have enough invasive species, you can now add gigantic lizards to the list.
Gary Nunn, an Orlando native, spotted one of these creatures in his backyard in the summer of 2023. He knew right away that it was unlike any he’d seen before. Nunn managed to lure the critter using a humane trap and a can of cat food.
He was concerned about it terrorizing his pets and other wildlife in the area. So, he sent a picture of the scaly beast, which only measured about a foot long, to Ron Magill of Zoo Miami. Magill confirmed that it was, in fact, an Argentine tegu. He went on to say, “Florida has become the Ellis Island of exotic animals.”
And that’s a pretty accurate description. Officials believe that, much like Burmese pythons, these creatures were purchased as pets and released into the wild when they grew too large for captivity.
What Is an Argentine Tegu?
Argentine tegus, or Salvator merianae, are giant, black-and-white reptiles. They can grow to four or five feet long and weigh around ten pounds.
When they first hatch, their heads are a bright emerald green. Over time, the verdant color fades to black. Juveniles may have yellow-striped tails that become darker with age. As adults, they have a mottled appearance that helps them camouflage within their surroundings.
Tegus can run at very high speeds, sometimes on two feet for short distances. They may do this when defending their territory or scaring off intruders. When stressed, they might also breathe heavily, whip their tail like a snake, or stomp their front feet before lunging and biting their aggressor.
Interestingly, they’re the only known reptiles that are partially endothermic. That means, unlike other animals in their class, they can control their body temperature internally.
Despite falling for Gary Nunn’s rudimentary trap, these reptiles are unusually intelligent. Folks seek them out as pets for that very reason. In fact, you can even house-train them if you’re diligent.
Read More: Warning – Are Gigantic Burmese Pythons Taking Over Florida?
Where Are Argentine Tegus Found?
As their common name suggests, Argentine tegus are native to South America. They live in a range of habitats, including shrubland, rainforests, tropical dry woodlands, and farmland in Bolivia, Brazil, Paraguay, and, of course, Argentina.
Technically, these reptiles are terrestrial. However, juveniles may spend more time in arboreal environments to hide from predators. They’re also surprisingly strong swimmers.
Today, these gigantic lizards are found throughout Florida. While most are in the southernmost end of the state, reports extend into the panhandle and even parts of Georgia, Alabama, and Texas. As we mentioned, most experts agree that they arrived here as part of the exotic animal trade. Unfortunately, they’re wreaking havoc on native wildlife.
Discover more: The Most Dangerous Creatures in Florida
Why Is This Gigantic Lizard a Problem for Florida?
The introduction of any new species to a habitat can have detrimental effects. In the case of the Argentine tegu, the greatest threat is to other reptiles.
These gigantic lizards love eating eggs and have plenty to choose from in Florida. Researchers have found them munching on unhatched American alligators, crocodiles, and, most critically, gopher tortoises. They also pose a risk to ground-nesting birds. Additionally, they’ll snack on fruits, seeds, insects, small birds, and other vertebrates.
When they wander onto farmland, they can decimate valuable crops and contaminate what they don’t manage to eat.
They’re now listed as a Prohibited Species, meaning you must have a special permit to keep one as a pet. However, it was already too late by the time this status change occurred. And because they lay up to thirty eggs each year, most believe the problem is bound to get worse. Furthermore, they can live up to 20 years.
They could pose a significant threat to some of the state’s endangered species in the future.
What Should You Do if You Find an Argentine Tegu?
You already know you need a permit to keep an Argentine tegu. But we suggest just not bringing these critters into your home.
However, if you have a tegu you can no longer care for, Florida’s Exotic Pet Amnesty Program is here to help. Their goal is to keep these critters from being relinquished into the environment. They’ll take in and rehome any non-native animals for free.
If you stumble upon one in the wild, there are a couple of steps to take.
First, snap a picture of it and note its precise location. Then, upload the information to the IveGot1 app. Alternatively, call their hotline to report your sighting or log on to the website.
By informing the proper authorities, they can help assess the spread of this invasive species throughout the state.
Dig into Florida facts with The Great Book of Florida: The Crazy History of Florida with Amazing Random Facts & Trivia.
You Can Help Stop Florida’s Gigantic Lizard Invasion
The gigantic lizards plaguing Florida are no surprise to anyone watching the region’s delicate ecosystem. After all, many of us are familiar with the scourge of Burmese pythons invading the swamps in the state’s southern end.
Although they threaten several endangered species, they don’t pose much of a threat to humans. Simply wash your produce and report any sightings, and you should be just fine.
Discover the Best Free Camping Across the USA
To be honest with you, we hate paying for camping. There are so many free campsites in America (with complete privacy).
You should give it a try!
As a matter of fact, these free campsites are yours. Every time you pay federal taxes, you’re contributing to these lands.
Become a FREE CAMPING INSIDER and join the 100,000 campers who love to score the best site!
We’ll send you the 50 Best Free Campsites in the USA (one per state). Access the list by submitting your email below: