What happened to the exotic lizard found in Providence?

The lizard was found near-frozen and stiff from the cold, but was rescued, taken indoors for warming, and then treated by wildlife experts.

What injuries did the tegu lizard sustain from the cold?

The tegu suffered life-threatening exposure, leading to tissue damage and muscle injury, and a portion of its tongue had to be amputated due to frostbite.

Are tegu lizards native to New England?

No, tegu lizards are originally from South America and are not native to New England, though they are legal to own as pets in Rhode Island.

Home / Environment / Hero Saves Near-Frozen Exotic Lizard in RI

Hero Saves Near-Frozen Exotic Lizard in RI

30 Jan

•

Summary

An exotic tegu lizard was found stiff from freezing temperatures.
The reptile was rescued and treated for cold exposure by experts.
A portion of the lizard's tongue was amputated due to frostbite.

Hero Saves Near-Frozen Exotic Lizard in RI

An exotic tegu lizard, not native to New England, was discovered severely cold-stunned in Providence on a day when temperatures averaged 22 degrees Fahrenheit. A local resident, initially mistaking the stiff reptile for a large iguana, rescued it and took it inside, providing gentle warming. Recognizing the danger the cold posed to the cold-blooded creature, he contacted ET Reptile, a pet store.

The lizard was then transferred to the New England Wildlife Center for specialized care. Veterinarians determined the animal had suffered life-threatening exposure, likely causing tissue damage and muscle injury. Due to frostbite on its tongue, a small portion had to be amputated, and the lizard also received steroids to combat inflammation.

The tegu is now recovering comfortably and warmly. While tegus are legal to own in Rhode Island, the origin of this particular lizard remains unknown. Experts emphasize that no native reptiles can survive such freezing conditions, urging pet owners against releasing exotic animals outdoors during winter.