Large Lizard From South America Has Georgia On Its Mind

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources has documented at least four adult Argentine black and white tegus in the state and 20 sightings in the stretch of forest, farmland and streams from the South Georgia town of Lyons to Reidsville. Tegus would pose a threat to native wildlife, including gopher tortoises, a candidate for Endangered Species Act listing.

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A South American lizard could be establishing a breeding population in South Georgia, state wildlife officials say.

The lizards — known as tegus — can grow up to 4 feet long.

Talk of large, odd-looking lizards has been circulating in eastern Toombs and western Tattnall counties, The Savannah Morning News reported.