Invasive Lizard Found in South Carolina

Wildlife agencies in South Carolina are requesting the public’s help in reporting sightings of a large, invasive lizard species known as the South American tegu. These lizards, which can be black and white or red, can grow up to 4 feet long and weigh 10 pounds. They are often released into the wild by owners who were unaware of their full-grown size at the time of purchase.

Tegus pose a threat to local ecosystems as they consume other reptiles and the eggs of ground-nesting birds like turkeys and quail. They are also carriers of salmonella. Since the first confirmation of tegus in the state, the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SC DNR) has received over 100 sighting reports and confirmed the presence of 24 black and white tegus and 2 red tegus. They’ve been spotted in several counties, including Anderson, Greenville, and Pickens.

If you see a tegu lizard in the wild, you are encouraged to report it using a specific form provided by the SC DNR. Photos are required for an official confirmation of the sighting.