Since 2006, a big South American lizard released by pet owners has been breeding across Florida: It raids the nests of native birds and even alligators to eat their eggs.
Escaped exotic pets, Argentine black-and-white tegus, have established breeding populations in Florida's warm climate. These intelligent reptiles consume a broad diet, including eggs of native wildlife. Their predation on eggs reduces hatchling numbers, impacting vulnerable native populations. Wildlife agencies are concerned about the long-term ecological effects of these invasive omnivores. Preventing exotic pet releases remains crucial for limiting future invasive species.
Escaped exotic pets, Argentine black-and-white tegus, have established breeding populations in Florida's warm climate. These intelligent reptiles consume a broad diet, including eggs of native wildlife. Their predation on eggs reduces hatchling numbers, impacting vulnerable native populations. Wildlife agencies are concerned about the long-term ecological effects of these invasive omnivores. Preventing exotic pet releases remains crucial for limiting future invasive species.
