Asian Water Monitor in Maryland: Giant Exotic Lizard Sparks Panic in Prince George’s County

Imagine walking to your front door to collect an Amazon package, only to find a three-and-a-half-foot lizard lounging right on top of your delivery. For one family in Prince George’s County, Maryland, this nightmare became a reality, sparking a neighborhood-wide concern over the presence of an Asian water monitor.

An Unexpected and Terrifying Visitor

The Trafton family first encountered the massive reptile about a week ago. Keshia Trafton recalls the moment of shock when her husband spotted the creature guarding their doorstep. While the lizard initially fled when approached, it has since made the family’s yard its preferred hangout.

The reptile has established a predictable, albeit frightening, routine. Whenever the temperature rises, the monitor emerges from the bushes to bask in the sun, often claiming the front steps or a house pillar as its territory. For the homeowners, this isn’t just a curiosity—it’s a source of genuine fear.

Concerns for Pets and Safety

Beyond the initial shock, the Traftons are deeply concerned for their pets. With two small Pomeranians in the house, the presence of a large predatory reptile is a constant worry. In an attempt to resolve the situation humanely, the family set up traps to lure the animal away, but the elusive lizard has managed to avoid capture.

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• Estimated Size: Approximately 3.5 feet long.
• Behavior: Sunning on steps and hiding in bushes.
• Impact: Significant stress for homeowners and risk to small pets.

The Legal Gray Area of Exotic Pets in Maryland

The appearance of an Asian water monitor in a residential Maryland neighborhood raises questions about the legality of exotic animals. According to the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR), monitor lizards are not classified as dangerous animals under state law, meaning a state permit is not required to own one.

However, the situation is more complex at the local level. While the state may be lenient, specific jurisdictions—including Prince George’s County—may have their own stringent rules regarding the possession of exotic wildlife. This suggests that the lizard may be an escaped or abandoned pet.

The Race to Capture the Reptile

After initial hesitation from local authorities, animal control officers have stepped in. In a recent operation, officers searched the Trafton residence, but the stealthy reptile managed to slip away once again.

Despite the lizard’s disappearing act, animal control officials have pledged to return to the property. Their goal is clear: to safely remove the Asian water monitor and restore peace to the household. For the Trafton family, the hope is that the next visit from animal control results in a successful capture.