The Argentine black and white tegu is spreading across Florida, posing a significant threat to native ecosystems by consuming the eggs of ground-nesting animals like sea turtles and alligators. According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), these invasive lizards are now established in multiple counties, prompting officials to urge residents to report sightings via the Exotic Species Hotline at 1-888-483-4681 rather than attempting capture.
How Do Tegus Threaten Florida’s Wildlife?
Tegus act as “equal-opportunity” predators, according to state wildlife managers. Because they are omnivorous, they consume both native plants and animals. Their primary ecological impact involves raiding the nests of gopher tortoises, sea turtles, and various ground-nesting birds. Data from the University of Georgia’s EDDMapS, a platform tracking invasive species, shows more than 11,700 reported tegu sightings in Florida in recent years. Unlike smaller invasive lizards like the one-foot African agama, the Argentine black and white tegu can reach lengths of nearly five feet, giving them the physical capacity to disrupt local food chains significantly.
Tegus are highly intelligent for reptiles. According to the FWC, they can recognize individual people, learn daily routines, and even respond to their names, which historically made them popular—if demanding—pets before they were prohibited.
Why Are They Spreading Across the State?
The current tegu population is a legacy of the former pet trade. Before Florida regulators moved to prohibit the acquisition, breeding, and sale of high-risk reptiles in 2021, tegus were commonly available for $200 to $600 at pet stores. The FWC notes that the species was likely introduced to the wild as early as 2002. While established populations are concentrated in Hillsborough, Miami-Dade, and Charlotte counties, recent reports indicate an emerging presence in St. Lucie County and recurring sightings in Brevard County, particularly near Lake Poinsett.
What Should You Do If You See a Tegu?
Wildlife officials provide a clear directive: do not attempt to capture the animal yourself. While there are no confirmed reports of tegus attacking humans, they are known to defend themselves if cornered. Residents should document the sighting by taking a photograph and noting the exact location. This information can be submitted through the IveGot1.org website or app. For those who encounter one, the FWC advises contacting the Exotic Species Hotline at 1-888-483-4681.
If you spot a tegu, try to capture a clear photo of the animal’s head and tail. Positive identification is essential for wildlife managers to determine if a population is breeding in a new area or if the sighting is an isolated incident.
Are There Future Methods to Control the Population?
Current control strategies remain experimental and geographically limited. State and federal agencies have tested various methods, including the use of dogs, drones, and even trained raptors to locate the lizards. In St. Lucie County, a falconer recently utilized an American kestrel to hunt invasive agamas, though experts note that scaling such programs to manage five-foot tegus remains a significant challenge. Meanwhile, property owners like Dave Yolitz of Viera have taken matters into their own hands, using tools like trash grabbers to secure the animals before humanely euthanizing them by severing the spinal cord—a method consistent with FWC protocols for dealing with nuisance alligators.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep a tegu as a pet in Florida?
No. According to the FWC, it is illegal to acquire, breed, or sell tegus as pets under current state regulations regarding high-risk nonnative reptiles.
Are tegus dangerous to humans?
There are no documented reports of tegus attacking humans, but officials warn that they are powerful animals that will defend themselves if trapped or cornered.
What is the most effective way to help?
Report every sighting to the FWC. The more data the state has regarding where these lizards are traveling, the better they can allocate resources for removal programs.
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