georgia argentine tegu invasive: Experts Warn the Giant Lizards Are Spreading Faster Than Ever
- A new study reveals that the Argentine black and white tegu population in Georgia has exploded, with confirmed sightings in at least 25 counties, up from just a handful a few years ago.
- These invasive lizards, which can grow up to 4 feet long, are voracious predators that eat everything from eggs and small animals to garden vegetables, threatening native wildlife like gopher tortoises and quail.
- The Georgia Department of Natural Resources is now using thermal drones and citizen reporting apps to track the reptiles, as they can survive mild winters and are breeding rapidly.
- Officials warn that homeowners in southern Georgia should be on the lookout for tegus near sheds, woodpiles, or chicken coops, and are urging people to never release pets into the wild.
- If you spot one, do not approach—instead, snap a photo and report it immediately online to help prevent these invasive giants from taking over the ecosystem.