12-05-2025
Argentine tegus are rare, but they've been seen in Alabama. Have you spotted one?
A new slithering species has been spotted in Alabama, adding to the state's already rich reptile population.
Though only spotted once so far, the Argentine tegu has entered Alabama. But what exactly is an Argentine tegu, and does it pose any threat? Here's what we know:
The tegu is a large, invasive, commonly black and white lizard from Argentina. They can grow up to 4 feet long and weighing 10 pounds or more, according to Georgia Wildlife. Unlike some other lizards, the tegu rarely climbs more than a few feet off the ground, but they are strong swimmers.
From late fall and through the winter months, tegus head into burrows for a hibernation-type period known as brumation to avoid freezing temperatures. They usually breed in the spring and typically lay 35 eggs per year which have a 60-day incubation. They may live up to 20 years.
The University of Georgia runs an interactive map with detailed info about tegus in Alabama. Over the last few years, there has been one report coming out of Tallapoosa, Ala. from a private landowner.
The tegu was reported in June 2022, accompanied by a photograph showing the lizard measuring over two feet in length and missing half of its tail.
Although not considered aggressive toward people, tegus will defend themselves if threatened, according to Georgia Wildlife. They can react fast and lash with their tails. They also have sharp teeth and claws and strong jaws.
Tegus also represent a natural threat because they have few predators and can multiple quickly. They eat the eggs of ground-nesting birds—including quail and turkeys—and other reptiles like the American alligator and gopher tortoise which are protected species. They will also eat chicken eggs, fruit, vegetables, plants, pet food, carrion and small live animals.
As of October 15, 2020, all species of tegu are prohibited by law in the state of Alabama due to "ecological, economic, and human health and safety concerns related to potential impacts of nonnative animals in Alabama."
This ban makes it illegal to possess, sell, import or release tegus within the state.
If you spot a tegu in Alabama, contact the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources by calling (334) 242-3469. Suspected illegal possession can be reported through Operation GameWatch at 1-800-272-4263.
Contributing: Miguel Legoas of the Deep South Connect Team Georgia contributed to this article.
Jennifer Lindahl is a Breaking and Trending Reporter for the Deep South Connect Team for Gannett/USA Today. Connect with her on X @jenn_lindahl and email at jlindahl@
This article originally appeared on Montgomery Advertiser: Argentine tegu is rare to alabama but they have been reported
