Invasive Giant Lizards Found in Southeast Georgia

Invasive Argentine black-and-white tegu lizards have been discovered in rural southeast Georgia, prompting warnings from state wildlife officials.

The spread of these lizards threatens local ecosystems by preying on protected species and ground-nesting birds. Because the tegus raid nests to eat eggs and young wildlife, they risk reversing years of conservation efforts in the region.

Wildlife officials have identified the lizards in at least two counties, including Tattnall and Toombs ^[1]. The animals are typically found in the state's grasslands and forest clearings ^[1]. More than 20 of these giant lizards have been found in the southeast region of the state ^[2].

The Argentine black-and-white tegu can reach a maximum length of four feet ^[3]. Their size and appetite make them formidable predators in the Georgia wild. Beyond the threat to biodiversity, officials said that these lizards can carry salmonella ^[4].

Daniel Sollenberger, a senior wildlife biologist with the Georgia DNR Wildlife Resources Division, said the animals pose a direct risk to the stability of the local environment. He said the danger to gopher tortoises and other native species is specific.

"We don't want them to undermine the conservation work that we've done for all these other species by raiding their nests," Sollenberger said.

State officials are monitoring the spread of the species to prevent further colonization of Georgia's forests. The presence of these lizards is considered a significant ecological threat due to their ability to outcompete native fauna for resources, and disrupt the natural breeding cycles of local birds.