By Amber Prinkey
Here at Sawgrass Nature Center, we see our share of non-native species. Some, like the Green Iguana, are considered invasive which means they are causing harm to our native species. In fact, Florida Fish and Wildlife (FWC) recently placed these reptiles on the “prohibited” list, meaning it is now illegal to breed, sell, or own them without a permit.
Green Iguana
Others, like the Brown Basilisk, Northern Curly Tailed Lizard, and Giant Ameiva are smaller than iguanas but also don’t belong here. The Curly Tails were brought to Florida in the 1930s to control sugarcane pests but now may eat our native anoles.
Northern Curly tailed Lizard
Brown Basilisk
Giant Ameiva
You may wonder, how did all these non-native lizards get here? Although some animals were brought here by well-meaning farmers trying to control their field pests, FWC reports that many species end up here from the pet trade. But you can help! Before committing to a new pet, do your research to be sure you can take care of it. Also, never release unwanted pets into the wild. And since these wild lizards are already here, come check them out at our Nature Center! You may see them scrambling through our Orchid Garden which is where most of these photos were taken.