Effingham County Man Reports Tegus Lizard to DNR, Says It’s First Reported Sighting in County

An Effingham County man posted on social media Sunday sharing that he had located a Tegus lizard in Clyo.

James Woods posted that the Argentine Tegus lizard was seen on Clyo Shawnee Road. According to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, the lizards, which are native to South America, are invasive and extremely dangerous to Georgia wildlife.

“Growing up to 4 feet long and weighing 10 pounds or more, this lizard native to South America is an invasive species that threatens Georgia wildlife.

Tegus will eat the eggs of ground-nesting birds—including quail and turkeys—and other reptiles, such as American alligators and gopher tortoises, both protected species. They will also eat chicken eggs, fruit, vegetables, plants, pet food, carrion and small live animals, from grasshoppers to young gopher tortoises.

There are concerns, as well, that tegus could spread exotic parasites to native wildlife and cause bacterial contamination of crops. Research shows that these reptiles, like most, carry salmonella.

Early detection, rapid response and public involvement are key to stopping tegus in the wild in Georgia.”

Georgia DNR has asked the public to contact the agency whether the lizards are seen dead or alive. Woods said he reported the animal to Georgia DNR and was told its the first sighting in Effingham County.

Georgia lists Argentine black and white tegus as wild animals. They cannot be kept as pets unless they were registered with DNR and tagged before Dec. 4, 2023.

Note that as a non-native species, tegus in the wild in Georgia are not protected by state wildlife laws or regulations. They can be legally trapped or killed year-round on private property with landowner permission. However, animal cruelty and local ordinances apply, as do appropriate safety precautions.

Tell DNR when you see a tegu in the wild, alive or dead. These reports help biologists document occurrences and respond effectively. Note the location, take a photo if possible and report the sighting:

• Online: gainvasives.org/tegus
• Phone: (478) 994-1438
• Email: gainvasives@dnr.ga.gov

DNR also advises that people keep pet food inside, fill holes that might serve as shelter and clear yards of debris such as brush piles that can provide cover for tegus.