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Green Iguanas: From Pet Craze to Florida Crisis
12 Sep
Summary
- Green iguanas, introduced in the 1960s, saw a population boom after Hurricane Andrew.
- Owners releasing exotic pets contributed to the invasive iguana spread.
- Florida banned green iguana importation and breeding in 2021 due to property damage.
Bright green lizards are a common sight across South Florida, but these invasive green iguanas are not native to the region. Their presence dates back to the early 1960s when they were first introduced as exotic pets.
While their numbers were initially manageable, the devastating Hurricane Andrew in 1992 marked a turning point. This powerful storm amplified their spread by disrupting habitats and creating new pathways.
The iguana invasion was also fueled by the exotic pet trade. As juvenile iguanas grew too large for owners to handle, many were released into the wild.
These reptiles thrive in Florida's warm climate and abundant waterways, extending their reach across multiple counties. They are adept swimmers and easily adapt to both urban and rural environments.
Beyond their visual impact, green iguanas pose a significant nuisance. They damage gardens and landscaping, and their burrowing habits cause erosion and undermine structures like sidewalks and canal banks.
Recognizing the escalating problem, Florida officially designated green iguanas as 'invasive and prohibited' in 2021. This regulation prohibits their importation and breeding. Residents are now permitted to remove wild iguanas from their properties.
Recent efforts highlight the scale of the challenge; in early 2026, over 5,000 iguanas were removed during a cold-weather event, underscoring the persistent nature of this invasive species.
