The Argentine black and white tegu is established in Florida. The FWC wants your help in controlling its population.
If you live in the state of Florida and come across an Argentine black and white tegu, (Salvator merianae), the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission wants you to report it so in can be captured.
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The Argentine black and white tegu is established in Florida. The FWC wants your help in controlling its population.
"Argentine black and white tegus are not native to our state, and they pose a serious threat to native species including ground nesting birds and reptiles such as burrowing owls and alligators," the FWC said on Facebook.
The large lizard is is popular with expert reptile keepers. They are not for beginners. Those in Florida who see one of these reptiles in the wild can call the at 888-483-4681. Those lizards in Florida are either escaped or released pets that have learned to flourish in the Sunshine State.
Salvator Tegu Care Information
Black and white tegus grow about 2 1/2 to 4 feet in length and can live up to 20 years. They are native to Central and South America and look like monitor lizards. Although not overly aggressive, tegus do have sharp teeth and strong jaws and claws.
