What To Know About The Tegu Lizard In Old Town

If you live in Old Town, you might want to keep a close eye on your small outdoor pets and your property

According to the Old Town Police Department, a large and tricky lizard is on the loose, and the last sighting was in the Hillside Avenue neighborhood on Sunday night.

"Its current whereabouts are unknown. We originally thought it was a Monitor lizard, although after hearing from many of you, we believe it’s a Tegu. Tegus have sharp teeth and claws, and strong jaws. While not inherently aggressive, they can lash out if they feel threatened."

Some Tegu lizards can grow to be up to 5 feet in size.

They specifically ask that if people see the lizard, take note of where it is and call the cops. (The number to the Old Town PD is (207) 827-3984. They say NOT to approach it.

Tegu On The Loose, Old Town Police Department

According to the experts, Tegu lizards are incredibly intelligent and really great swimmers who have the potential to travel long distances when looking for food.

"The tegu can grow up to five feet in length and have a lifespan of 10 to 12 years. It is an omnivorous animal, and its diet consists of small mammals, birds, lizards, frogs, and invertebrates. They require a spacious enclosure with plenty of hiding places, as well as access to UVB lighting and a basking spot."

It's not clear whether the lizard escaped from an enclosure accidentally or was released intentionally.