Escaped Lizard Named Goose on the Lam in Connecticut: Here’s what you need to know.
Goose is on the loose.
The 5-foot lizard Goose was discovered in Douglas after escaping from Webster’s house. On Wednesday, July 30, a resident of Douglas took a picture of the elusive reptile and reported it to the authorities. Massachusetts Environmental Police identified the missing pet as Goose after examining the photo. The reptile had vanished by the time authorities arrived on the scene. The search goes on. A day after it appeared to have escaped, Goose’s owner reported it missing on July 18. Officials said the reptile was not legally owned. Goose was not found during the first search, and authorities stated that it would be challenging to locate. It is known that these reptiles will climb trees in search of water.
In a surreal and wild turn of events, Goose, a five-foot long lizard, escaped from a home out in Massachusetts and is now wandering too freely in the woods of Thompson, Connecticut. The creature, known as an Asian water monitor lizard, is an exotic pet that is not native to the United States, and rarely found outside collections of exotic pets or zoos. His escape has raised concerns surrounding safety, wildlife laws and even how a large animal like Goose could go missing in the first place.
The public is being warned by officials not to get close to the lizard. Reports of sightings should be sent to: 800-632-8075 (Press #1) Massachusetts Environmental Police Animal Control and Webster PD: (508) 943-1212, ext. 1240
Note: To read more about Âsmall pets for home,how they can make your life completely change from depressed 😔 life to enjoying every moment of life 😊.
Let’s breakdown what we know about this ridiculous situation – from how Goose escaped, where he has been spotted, how dangerous he may or may not be, and what the authorities are currently doing about it.
Disclaimer: The information is taken from other websites.
How Did Goose Escape?
It all began on July 18, 2025 in Webster, Massachusetts, Goose is said to have slipped out of an enclosure. Reports stated that a house-sitter opened a second floor window knowing Goose was loose in the room, and the large reptile promptly went out through the opening, disappearing into the surrounding woods.
Goose wasn’t just a pet – he was being kept illegally. Massachusetts has permits for exotic animals, and Goose’s owner lacked any of the required documentation. That created additional legal risks on top of the already serious issue.
white scarring across his back, which matched the description given by his former owner.
Although there have been multiple sightings reported, Goose remains elusive, even after attempts by local animal control, and wildlife experts. Goose is fast, elusive, and when hiding in the thick underbrush or climbing a tree, he is nearly impossible to catch.
What Is an Asian Water Monitor?
Goose is a member of the species known as the Asian water monitor lizard (Varanus salvator). These reptiles are native to parts of Southeast Asia and can grow to about 8 feet in length, though Goose is likely about 5 feet. They are semi-aquatic, strong swimmers and are opportunistic carnivores that will eat small animals, fish and eggs in the wild.
Water monitors are not naturally aggressive towards humans, but they may bite or scratch if they feel threatened. There are bacteria found in their mouths that may cause infection, which is why caution is used and experts advise not to handle.
Is Goose a Threat?
The short response to that question is – not likely, but don’t take chances.
Officials remind people not to view Goose as a serious danger to people or pets if left alone. However, like many wild or exotic animals, Goose can be defensive when cornered or provoked and can inflict serious damage with his sharp claws and teeth, particularly to children, and smaller living things.
Moreover, Goose’s bite can have harmful bacteria, and even a mild nip if untreated could lead to infection. That’s why wildlife officers and reptile experts are taking the unusual step of advising the public: do not attempt to capture Goose, nor approach Goose. Only report any sightings of Goose immediately to animal control or the Connecticut State Police.
What Authorities Are Doing?Â
Animal control in Massachusetts and Connecticut have been involved in this matter since the start. Thompson Animal Control in Connecticut is the primary agency that has put this all together, including a professional reptile expert to help with the search.
Drones were used in the early days, and we were able to survey through thick woods and swampy areas near Goose’s last known location. Drones helped to survey and check the traps and volunteers did ground searches beginning before the Thanksgiving holiday, but they are still actively searching for Goose.
Now that we are over a week without any confirmed new sightings of Goose, authorities stated that they have reduced the active search; they are on standby and still ready to roll anew should Goose be spotted again.
What should I do if I see a monitor lizard?Â
Here are some suggestions from the experts:
Don’t approach Goose(monitor lizard). He may be small, but he can still strike if he feels frightened.
If possible, maintain as safe a distance as possible, preferably far enough to be able to take a picture of him.
Carefully note your location – street names, landmarks, and time of day.
Call authorities right away (Webster Animal Control, Thompson Animal Control, or Connecticut State Police).
Do not try to capture Goose or feed him. He may not want your human food, and trying to get too close may scare him away.
🧪 Exotic Pets Can Be a Problem.
The story about Goose sparked a larger conversation about the issues with having exotic pets. Some exotic pets, like water monitor lizards, large snakes, and wild felines, are amazing creatures to have but can be extremely dangerous if neglected or not properly cared for. Animals like these need special upkeep, specialized enclosures, and professional understanding of their requirements. If they are kept improperly, they may escape and cause injury or damage, and non-native species can also injure native wildlife.
Massachusetts and Connecticut have laws regulating exotic animal ownership. Goose’s escape may now mean the owner faces criminal charges against then, this could aÂlso lead to more regulations on exotic pets in general.
FAQ: Escaped Lizard Named Goose on the Loose in Connecticut: What You Need to Know.
1. What should you do if you see a monitor lizard?
Do not move. Maintain a safe distance, watching the monitor lizard without drawing its attention. If the lizard is in a public space or a neighborhood, contact the appropriate local authorities, including the wildlife service or animal control agency.
2. What precautions should you take when you see a monitor lizard?
Do not try to grab or trap the monitor lizard.
Do not allow children or animals to approach the lizard.
Calmly refrain from any rapid hand movements that could frighten the monitor lizard.
For lizards inside houses or purportedly injured, contact the appropriate responders.
3. What to do if you find a monitor lizard?
Do not attempt to self-capture the monitor lizard.
If it is safe to do so, photograph the monitor lizard from a distance.
Make a mental note of the details including the location, then file a report to wildlife rescue, forest department, or animal control.
4. What does it mean when a monitor lizard crosses your path?
A monitor lizard crossing one’s path is sometimes used to suggest luck or some bit of spirituality. But scientifically, it is just a lizard traversing its territory.
5. Are monitor lizards dangerous or poisonous?
No, monitor lizards are not venomous. That said, they can pose a danger if they’re scared. They can scratch you, bite you, and even hit you with their tail. Some species are known to harbor harmful bacteria, making their bite infectious. Because of this, monitor lizards should always be treated and handled with care.
