Large Tegu Lizard Discovered Under Georgia Woman's Porch

Large Tegu Lizard Discovered Under Georgia Woman’s Porch

Web Desk

02nd Nov, 2023. 02:34 pm
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3-foot Argentine black and white tegu lizard found under Georgia resident’s porch.
Previously spotted by children, the discovery prompts attention.
Part of a new law mandating registration for tegu lizard owners.

According to wildlife officials in Georgia, until neighborhood kids informed her about a “giant lizard,” the woman had no idea that a 3-foot tegu lizard lived under her porch.

According to a news release from the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, the Athens resident found a “giant lizard” dwelling beneath her porch after hearing several children claim to have seen one in her yard.

The lizard was identified as an exotic species known as the Argentine black and white tegu, which can reach a length of four feet.

After being taken into custody, the DNR received the tegu and reported that it was unable to find its owner.

According to Brett Albanese of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, “This is definitely an example of why we need to regulate these species,” according to the news release.

“They can be difficult to keep and as they grow their owners may not want to care for them or be able to afford to.”

Owners of tegu lizards and five other kinds of reptiles must tag and register their animals according to a new law that goes into force in Georgia in December.