DD Animal News – Florida’s wildlife scene just got a lot more colorful—and a bit more complicated. This spring, neighborhoods across the Sunshine State are spotting a bold new reptilian resident: the Peter’s rock agama. And if you’ve seen one, you know. With a blazing orange head that looks dipped in mac-and-cheese powder, it’s hard to miss.
But don’t let the vibrant vibes fool you. This eye-catching lizard is an invasive species, and experts are keeping a close watch.
The Lizard That Stands Out—Literally
Native to parts of sub-Saharan Africa, Peter’s rock agama (Agama picticauda) is now making itself at home in Florida’s warm climate. These reptiles are larger than most geckos found in the state, with males measuring in at one foot. This pales in comparison to Florida’s only native gecko species, which is the tiny Reef Gecko.
“The agama have spiny scales and a somewhat rough appearance, whereas our geckos have small, flat scales and look much smoother,” explained Dr. Steve Johnson, an expert from the University of Florida. “Also, Peter’s rock agama are active during the day, but the geckos are active mainly at night.”
So while most native geckos stay low-key under the cover of darkness, these day-walking agamas are out and about, soaking up sun and attention.
Why Wildlife Experts Are Concerned
Sure, their colors are striking. But their impact? Potentially harmful.
First being seen in Florida in 1976, now the agama has had reported sightings in over 67 counties throughout Florida. Peter’s rock agamas are fast, adaptable, and opportunistic hunters. They’re known to feast on their own young as well as insects and small reptiles, including some of Florida’s native species. That includes the Reef Gecko, a delicate native that now faces competition for food, space, and survival.
“There’s real concern about the pressure these agamas could put on our native ecosystems,” Johnson noted.
Natural City Slickers
Unlike many other lizard species that blend into the background, agamas seem to thrive in urban areas—climbing walls, basking on sidewalks, and darting across driveways. As their population grows, so does the potential for ecological disruption. With the feeding on smaller insects, including butterflies, the Peter’s rock agama is in competition with native species for resources.
According to the University of Florida the invasive agama does not invade natural habitat, but is instead naturally attracted to human-dominated areas. Although found in residential areas, they have not been found to hurt people or pets, however it has been reported by the University of Florida that their bite could be painful.
What Can Floridians Do?
If you spot a Peter’s rock agama in your neighborhood, there’s no need to panic—but experts encourage residents to report sightings to local wildlife officials, like the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Knowing where the agamas are popping up helps scientists and conservationists monitor their spread and determine whether intervention is needed.
While they aren’t dangerous to humans or pets, these flashy lizards could throw off the balance of Florida’s already fragile reptile ecosystem.
So keep your eyes open this spring. That bright orange flash zipping past the garden hose? It might not be a gecko. It might just be Florida’s newest invasive lizard, making itself at home.
