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Invasive species originating from South America advances through the American state, concerns environmental authorities and puts native fauna on alert.
The presence of the Argentine black and white tegu has become a cause for alarm in Georgia, United States, after sightings in different areas of the state.
The Georgia Department of Natural Resources documented more than 20 lizards of this species, according to information released by the broadcaster WSB-TV.
The highest concentration of the animals appears in the southeastern region of the state, where technicians are monitoring the evolution of the invasive species.
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The state government has also begun to seek residents’ help in controlling the reptiles, including safe culling.
Resilient South American species worries Georgia
The Argentine black and white tegu originates from South America and can exceed 1.2 meters in length.
The species exhibits rapid reproduction, great resilience, and a high capacity to adapt to new environments.
The lizards also swim well, remain submerged for long periods, and move quickly.
During winter, the reptiles can survive Georgia’s cold by entering a state similar to hibernation.
This combination makes control more difficult for environmental teams.
Threat to native fauna raises environmental alert
The main concern involves the impact of these reptiles on native animals and protected species.
The tegus consume eggs of ground-nesting birds and can also attack local animal offspring.
Among the most concerning cases are the American alligator hatchlings, cited by environmental authorities.
The species’ diet also includes carrion, chicken eggs, fruits, vegetables, small live animals, and pet food.
This behavior increases the lizard’s chances of survival in different environments.
Health risk also enters the radar
Research cited by People magazine indicates that these lizards can carry salmonella.
Experts also express concern about the possible transmission of exotic parasites to native wildlife.
Agricultural areas appear on the authorities’ radar due to the risk of crop contamination.
The combination of environmental impact and health risk reinforces the seriousness of the species’ advance.
Captures have increased since 2018
Data released by the Georgia Public Broadcasting (GPB) shows that about 30 tegus have been captured or killed since 2018.
The records occurred only in Tattnall and Toombs counties, areas considered important in monitoring the species.
Reports of sightings also appear in more than 30 counties in Georgia.
The number may seem small for such a large region, but the ecological threat worries specialists.
Residents receive guidance from the government
Daniel Sollenberger, senior biologist at the DNR Wildlife Resources Division, stated that these animals are fast and difficult to capture.
The agency advises residents to report any sightings and, when safe, help control the reptiles.
Those who cannot act directly should photograph the animal and notify environmental authorities.
This record can help technical teams guide residents or install traps in the area.
Can the advance of the Argentine tegu get out of control?
The presence of the giant South American lizard shows how an exotic species can quickly alter the balance of an ecosystem.
The case also highlights the challenge of containing resilient, fast, and adaptable animals before they expand their area of occupation.
Population collaboration has become a central part of Georgia’s environmental strategy.
Now, the big question is whether the current monitoring will be enough to prevent the Argentine tegu from advancing further into the United States.
What do you think should be the priority in Georgia: quickly containing the advance of the Argentine tegu or investing in environmental monitoring before expanding control actions?
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