Invasive Agama Lizards Spread Across Florida, Raising Disease Concerns

As of November 8th, 2025, experts have expressed growing concerns over the spread of an invasive lizard species in Florida. According to recent reports, there have been 27 confirmed sightings of the Peter's rock agama lizard in Duval County, with over 2,000 sightings previously documented in Miami-Dade County.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has identified the agama as a non-native species originally from Africa, which first appeared in South Florida around 50 years ago. Eric Suarez, a leader in invasive species research at the University of Florida, explains that these lizards often "hitchhike" on vehicles, allowing them to spread to new areas.

The increasing presence of agamas in the Sunshine State could have significant consequences for native species populations. Suarez warns that if the agamas outcompete the native brown anole lizard, it could lead to the spread of mosquito-borne diseases like West Nile virus. This is because brown anoles serve as a "stop host" for such diseases, and their decline could result in mosquitoes transmitting the viruses to other species.

Invasive species are considered one of the biggest threats to wildlife and habitats in the United States, with about 42% of threatened or endangered species at risk due to non-native plants and animals. Experts emphasize the importance of prevention and eradication efforts to mitigate the impact of these invasive species on local ecosystems.