Exotic Tegu Lizard Rescued After Being Found Buried Under 2 Feet of Snow

The cold-blooded reptile was discovered by a Rhode Island resident and is now recovering at a wildlife center.

Jan. 30, 2026 at 8:47pm

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A Providence, Rhode Island man clearing snow after a major winter storm made a shocking discovery when he spotted a large exotic tegu lizard buried beneath nearly 20 inches of snow. The cold-blooded reptile, dubbed "Frankie", was alive and immediately brought indoors to help conserve heat. Veterinarians found the tegu to be extremely weak, underweight, and suffering from frostbite, but the animal is now resting comfortably and receiving supportive care at the New England Wildlife Center.

Why it matters

Tegu lizards are not native to the Northeast and are not equipped to survive the harsh New England winters. This incident highlights the risks exotic pets can face when released or escaped, as well as the importance of proper care and preparation for those who choose to keep them as pets.

The details

The man who discovered the tegu wrapped the reptile in a T-shirt and contacted reptile experts at ET Reptiles, a local pet store, for assistance. ET Reptiles' co-owners responded immediately and retrieved the animal. Veterinarians later found that the tegu had suffered frostbite to its tongue and significant muscle weakness due to prolonged exposure to the cold. A small portion of nonviable tissue from the tegu's tongue was amputated, and the animal is receiving steroids and other supportive care to address inflammation and weakness.

  • On January 29, 2026, a major winter storm moved through Rhode Island, dumping heavy snowfall across the region.
  • On January 30, 2026, a Providence resident clearing snow discovered the tegu lizard buried under nearly 20 inches of snow.

The players

New England Wildlife Center (NEWC)

A nonprofit organization that is caring for the rescued tegu lizard and providing veterinary treatment.

ET Reptiles

A reptile store based in Warwick, Rhode Island that responded to the call for help and retrieved the tegu lizard.

Frankie

The nickname given to the black-and-white tegu lizard that was rescued from the snow.

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What they’re saying

“This is not something even the most snow-hardened New Englander would expect to find.”

— New England Wildlife Center

“It was an intense 24 hours. We're beyond thankful we were able to intervene and give the lizard care.”

— ET Reptiles

What’s next

The New England Wildlife Center says Frankie is now resting comfortably and they will continue to provide updates on his recovery. The organization is also asking anyone with information about the lizard or who may be missing a tegu to contact them or ET Reptiles.

The takeaway

This incident serves as a reminder of the challenges and risks associated with keeping exotic pets, especially in regions with harsh winter climates. It highlights the importance of proper care, preparation, and responsible ownership for those who choose to have these animals as pets.