An invasive lizard from Africa, now settled in South Florida, has been spotted migrating up the coast of the Sunshine State. The Peter's rock agama has reached parts of Central Florida, with residents of West Melbourne noting the presence of these red-headed reptiles.

"I saw the head. It is red, and it’s pretty abnormal, and I have never seen a lizard that big," resident Jingchen Bi told FOX35 Orlando.

Ken Gioeli, a natural resources extension agent with the University of Florida, referred to the lizards’ northward movement as "the invasion front."

"They’re causing some impact to the environment, but we still don’t yet have a total handle on what it is that they’re doing," Gioeli explained.

First documented in Florida in 1976, the Peter’s rock agama has established itself in 20 counties, from Monroe to Volusia, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). The species is native to tropical, sub-Saharan Africa.

The lizards' size and high population densities could affect other species by preying on natives and competing for resources, wildlife officials said. The FWC notes that the species primarily feeds on ants, grasshoppers, crickets, and other insects but has also been observed eating snakes, lizards, birds, and small mammals.

Adult male Peter’s rock agamas can grow up to 12 inches long, while females reach lengths of 4 to 5 inches. The lizard was likely introduced to Florida through the pet trade, either as escaped or released pets.

The FWC reports that while the ecological impact of these lizards is still being studied, their full effect on the local environment remains unknown. This uncertainty has prompted further research into their behavior and interactions with native species.

The spread of the Peter’s rock agama is part of a broader issue of invasive species affecting Florida's ecosystems. These invasions often lead to competition with native wildlife for food and habitat, potentially disrupting local biodiversity. Residents are encouraged to report sightings to local wildlife authorities to help track the lizard's spread.

As for whether the growing population can be controlled, the FWC states that "eradication of established populations in Florida is likely not feasible." Despite this, efforts continue to manage and mitigate the impact of these invasive lizards on Florida's delicate ecosystems.