Overview
- A Providence resident uncovered the large Argentine black-and-white tegu while shoveling after a major storm and brought it indoors to conserve heat.
- ET Reptiles retrieved the animal and transferred it to the New England Wildlife Center for care following room-temperature rewarming.
- Vets amputated nonviable tissue from the lizard’s frostbitten tongue and provided supportive treatment, including steroids for inflammation and weakness.
- Clinicians cited cold-induced myopathy and severe weakness after exposure in roughly 22-degree weather, but report the tegu is now resting and warm.
- Officials do not know if the lizard escaped or was released and urge anyone with information to contact the wildlife center or ET Reptiles, warning owners not to release reptiles in winter.