Unregistered Giant Lizard Found Under Athens Porch Raises Concerns in Georgia

The discovery of a 3-foot-long lizard under a porch in Athens, Georgia, has highlighted the importance of new regulations requiring pet owners to register and tag specific reptile species. The registration deadline is approaching, and pet owners are urged to schedule a visit to their veterinarian to meet the December 3rd deadline. Six reptile species, including the Argentine black and white tegu, have been designated as wild animals in Georgia, and pet owners have a grace period to attach passive integrated transponder (PIT) tags and register their reptiles. Releasing non-native species into the wild is illegal and undermines efforts to protect native wildlife.