02/22/2026
Please take the survey and voice your opinions on the proposed changes.
Get links and full details at https://usark.org/26ar/.
The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) has proposed changes to its Captive Wildlife species list. Among these changes is the addition of all tegu species to the Prohibited List. Currently, some tegus (only the genus Salvator) are on the Unrestricted List. Other tegus (i.e., Colombian/Golden tegu) are currently illegal to keep without a permit.
You may comment until March 6 through the AGFC survey portal by going here https://www.agfc.com/regulations/ and clicking “Click Here to take the 2026 AGFC Regulations Public Input Survey.” You may comment on other sections or skip to SECTION 8: CAPTIVE WILDLIFE. There are several issues in this section (this issue is the fifth). You choose Support, Oppose, or No Opinion, and you may also leave a comment.
Anyone who currently owns a tegu (prior to April 16, 2026) will be allowed to possess those tegus if they register them by June 30, 2027. Concerned tegu owners, and especially anyone breeding them, should voice their concerns to AGFC.
The proposal also adds fire skinks to the Unrestricted List, and Dwarf caiman, Western Painted turtle, Yellow-bellied sliders to the Permitted List, along with other changes. More information and all proposals at www.usark.org.
