Florida has a well-documented history with invasive species, and a new chapter is unfolding across Central Florida. The northern curly-tailed lizard — known scientifically as Leiocephalus carinatus — is expanding its range northward, raising concerns among ecologists about its impact on local ecosystems.
The species is native to the Bahamas and first gained a foothold in South Florida back in the 1930s. For decades it remained largely contained to the southern part of the state, but the lizard has been gradually pushing into new territory in recent years.
As with many invasive reptiles in Florida, the concern centers on competition with native species. Curly-tailed lizards are opportunistic predators and can outcompete native lizards for food and habitat, potentially disrupting the ecological balance in areas where they establish themselves.
Residents who spot the species — identifiable by its distinctive curled tail — in Central Florida neighborhoods are encouraged to report sightings to wildlife authorities, as tracking the spread is key to understanding the full scope of the situation.
This story was originally reported by Fox Weather.
