Department of Agriculture

NR-17-09
May 30, 2017

HONOLULU – A Waianae family captured an illegal bearded dragon lizard at their home yesterday afternoon and called inspectors at the Hawaii Department of Agriculture (HDOA). The lizard was found in their yard on Hakalina Rd., a few blocks from where another bearded dragon was captured in April 2016. It is not known where this illegal lizard came from.

The lizard measured about 16 inches from snout to tail and is being safeguarded at HDOA’s Plant Quarantine Branch. (Photos attached.)

In 2014, a Kailua resident found a bearded dragon under his home.

Bearded dragons are native to central Australia and are common in the pet trade on the Mainland. They may grow up to two feet in length and their diet consists of insects, flowers, fruit and vegetable matter. Larger adults may also consume small rodents and invertebrates.

Persons possessing illegal animals are subject to stiff penalties, including fines of up to $200,000 and up to three years in jail. Individuals with illegal pets are encouraged to voluntarily turn them in under the department’s Amnesty Program, which offers immunity from prosecution. Anyone with information or knowledge of illegal animals in Hawaii is asked to call the department’s PEST HOTLINE at 643-PEST (7378).

###