Tegu Lizard Rescued from Snowy Driveway in Rhode Island

A dramatic rescue and recovery effort highlights the precarious balance between exotic pets and the natural world.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 4:45pm

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An extremely abstracted, out-of-focus photograph of a curled up reptile form wrapped in a soft, warm-colored t-shirt, conveying the delicate nature of the rescue and recovery effort.A rescued tegu lizard finds temporary shelter and care after being discovered buried in the snow, highlighting the challenges of exotic pet ownership.Providence Today

A Rhode Island resident discovered a large tegu lizard buried under nearly 20 inches of snow while shoveling his driveway. The man quickly brought the cold-blooded creature inside, wrapped it in a t-shirt, and contacted reptile experts who rushed the severely weakened lizard to the New England Wildlife Center for urgent care. Veterinarians worked to treat the tegu's frostbite and muscle weakness, and she is now resting comfortably as she recovers.

Why it matters

While it's legal to own a tegu as a pet in Rhode Island, animal experts strongly advise keeping them indoors due to the harsh winters. This incident highlights the potential dangers of exotic pet ownership and the importance of responsible care, as well as the dedication of local wildlife rescue organizations.

The details

The homeowner discovered the tegu, a large black-and-white lizard native to Central and South America, while clearing snow from his driveway in Providence. He immediately brought the reptile inside, wrapped it in a t-shirt to conserve heat, and contacted experts at ET Reptiles. A rescue team was dispatched, and the tegu was rushed to the New England Wildlife Center, where veterinarians found she had suffered frostbite and severe muscle weakness from prolonged exposure to the cold.

  • The homeowner discovered the tegu while shoveling his driveway in Providence, Rhode Island.

The players

Frankie

The tegu lizard that was rescued from the snowy driveway in Providence, Rhode Island.

New England Wildlife Center

The wildlife rehabilitation organization that provided urgent care to the rescued tegu lizard.

ET Reptiles

The reptile experts who were contacted by the homeowner and dispatched a rescue team to assist the tegu lizard.

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What’s next

The experts at ET Reptiles and the New England Wildlife Center are committed to ensuring Frankie makes a full recovery and finds a suitable, loving home. They are closely monitoring her progress and providing the necessary care and treatment.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the potential dangers of exotic pet ownership and the importance of responsible care, as well as the dedication of local wildlife rescue organizations.