Georgia wildlife officials issue urgent warning as invasive Argentine tegu lizards continue to spread across the state, threatening native species and agricultural operations. WHY THIS MATTERS: The Argentine black and white tegu, a large lizard native to South America, has been confirmed in at least six Georgia counties since 2020, with recent sightings in Toombs and Tattnall counties. WHAT HAPPENED: The Georgia Department of Natural Resources reports that the tegus, which can grow up to four feet in length, are reproducing rapidly and preying on eggs of ground-nesting birds like quail and turkeys, as well as endangered gopher tortoises. WHERE THIS IS HAPPENING: Primarily in southeastern Georgia, with established populations in counties including Toombs, Tattnall, and Tatnall, and isolated incidents in Metro Atlanta suburbs. WHEN THIS BECAME CRITICAL: Over the past 12 months, eradication efforts have failed to contain the spread, with trappers capturing over 200 tegus in 2023 alone. WHO IS INVOLVED: The Georgia DNR, USDA Wildlife Services, and local animal control agencies are coordinating removal efforts, urging residents to report sightings immediately. HOW THIS SPREADS: Tegus are believed to have been released by pet owners; they thrive in Georgia's warm climate and are notorious for eating everything from fruits to small animals, including the eggs of native reptiles and birds. The state warns that without aggressive control measures, the invasive tegu could decimate local wildlife populations and harm Georgia's $70 billion agriculture industry.