wild florida ecotravel guide
Gators Crocs Birds Mammals snakes turtles frogs Lizards insects fish plants sharks
florida wildlife
favorite activities
florida destinations

 

 

 


A New Exotic Lizard on the loose in Florida

Black and White Tegu Exotic animals in Florida

                                                                             Photo Said Dupar ©

On April 30th 2010 an exotic black-and-white tegu lizard was captured at the entrance to Everglades National Park. A week later, another tegu was sighted 200 miles north, in the Ocala National Forest, just north of State Road 40.

Native to South America, tegus are large, powerful predatory lizards that are often kept as pets. Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission officials believe pet owners may have released the lizards when they grew too big to handle. Tegus are active during the day and like to bask in the sun. They feed on small animals, insects and eggs, but will also eat fruit and plants. Tegu lizards grow to four feet in length and weigh about 8 pounds.

 

top of page | Home

 

Wildlife of Florida 2011
Wildlife of Florida 2011
Fiona Sunquist
Download $19.99
Support independent publishing: Buy this e-book on Lulu.

Lizards book cover
Wildlife of Florida: Lizards
Fiona Sunquist
Download $2.49
Support independent publishing: Buy this e-book on Lulu.

Your Ad Here

 

gator/crocs | birds | mammals | snakes | turtles | frogs/toads | lizards | sharks

Wildlife | Favorite Activities | My Destinations | about us | resources | site map | home

contribute templates web site development by Creative Communications