An early detection rapid response case study of the Black and White Tegu (Salvator merianae) and implications for a broader framework

Documentation of successful early detection rapid response (EDRR) efforts is lacking from the scientific literature but is needed to inform invasive species response protocols.The Black and White Tegu (Salvator merianae) has become established in several Florida counties and its spread is of significant conservation concern.It is a high priority for State and Federal managers to prevent tegu spread into sensitive ecosystems, including the Greater Everglades.Thus, coordinated EDRR efforts are essential given limited infrastructure and funding for such tasks.While tegus have known populations east and west of Big Cypress National Preserve, there is no evidence to indicate tegus are established within the preserve.On 8 August 2024 a tegu was sighted by a U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) biologist in Big Cypress National Preserve, who alerted National Park Service (NPS) staff and mobilized a response.Within 24 hours, live traps were placed at the location of sighting and a tegu was captured on 13 August 2024.The tegu was determined to be the same individual that was observed five days earlier based on color, pattern, and other physical characteristics.No additional tegus were captured in the 48 hours that traps were left open following capture of the target individual.The rapid, coordinated response of NPS and USGS certainly contributed to this successful EDRR event, and highlights the need for more expansive EDRR frameworks at multiple jurisdictional scales.