A tegu lizard, typically native to South America, was discovered buried in the snow by a man in his driveway in Providence, Rhode Island. The cold-blooded reptile was suffering from exposure and was taken into a warm environment, wrapped in a t-shirt, and transported to an animal hospital for emergency care. Doctors assessed that the lizard was extremely weak, underweight, and had frostbite on its tongue, which necessitated the amputation of a small portion of it.

After receiving treatment, the tegu is reported to be stable and on the road to recovery. The animal hospital shared on social media that the lizard is now resting comfortably and finally warm, marking a significant improvement in its condition. The exact circumstances of how the lizard ended up in the snow, whether it escaped or was abandoned, remain unclear, raising questions about the care of exotic pets in colder climates.

This incident highlights the challenges faced by non-native reptiles when kept as pets in environments outside their natural habitats. As winter conditions can prove fatal to cold-blooded animals, it serves as a reminder for pet owners to consider the specific needs and environmental requirements of their exotic pets, especially during extreme weather conditions.