South Florida Natural Resources Center

Scientists track tegus using these transmitters and radio telemetry to locate their position in the wild. Tracking tegus teaches us which habitats they prefer, how far they travel, and where they go during the winter months. This information can also help us accomplish the ultimate goal: keeping tegus out of Everglades National Park and other ecologically sensitive areas.

Invasive species are bad news. They are able to spread aggressively outside their natural range, and can cause local extinctions of native species. Invasives are plentiful in South Florida because the subtropical environment allows for many non-native species to thrive, and Miami acts as a port of entry. Local ornamental and pet industries breed animals and plants here that have the potential to escape and survive.