10/01/2026
We’re back with another creature that makes you wonder what in the world is going on. Meet the Argentine black-and-white tegu!
This giant lizard is native to South America, but it has made its way to Georgia. They can grow up to FOUR FEET LONG. That's not a lizard. That's a small dinosaur with a gym membership.
They're black and white, covered in speckles and bands, with sharp claws, powerful jaws, and a tail that can pack a serious punch if they feel threatened.
And they're not exactly picky eaters. Tegus eat eggs from quail and turkeys, along with the eggs of other reptiles, including alligators and gopher tortoises. That's a problem for our native wildlife, through no fault of their own. These lizards didn't ask to be here. They were introduced to an environment where they don't belong, and now they're just trying to survive.
Georgia's known wild population is in Toombs and Tattnall counties in South Georgia, where DNR is working to control their numbers. Sightings have also been reported elsewhere in the state.
If you spot one, DO NOT try to catch it! Take a photo from a safe distance, note where you saw it, and report it to Georgia DNR at 478-994-1438 or [email protected]. Include a photo if possible.
It's not that we don't trust you… but we'll just quickly reference the pigeon story. 👀
PLEASE don't release exotic pets, or ANY pets, into the wild! Releasing non-native species into an environment where they don't belong can have serious consequences for our native wildlife.
Stay wild, Georgia. But maybe a little LESS wild.
Because these things look like there's been a breach in Jurassic Park. 🦖
