Georgia Department of Natural Resources Urges Action Against Invasive Tegus Threatening Wildlife
The Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is calling on residents to help combat the spread of Argentine black and white tegus, an invasive lizard species threatening local wildlife. These reptiles, native to South America, have been found in Toombs and Tattnall counties in Georgia. Known for their voracious appetite, tegus prey on a variety of native species, including alligator eggs, ground-nesting birds, and hatchling gopher tortoises. They also consume chicken eggs, fruits, vegetables, and small animals, posing a significant threat to the ecosystem. The DNR is urging residents to report sightings and, if possible, trap and kill these reptiles to prevent further spread. The tegus are also carriers of exotic parasites and bacteria, such as salmonella, which could contaminate crops and affect native wildlife. 
