Iguanas are large, herbivorous lizards that naturally inhabit tropical regions of Mexico, Central America, South America, and the Caribbean. In Florida, the green iguana is recognized as an invasive species, having established populations primarily through escaped or released pets and cargo ship stowaways. Florida’s warm, subtropical climate provides an ideal environment for these reptiles to thrive and reproduce. Their presence has led to increasing concerns regarding their potential impacts on both human well-being and property.
Understanding Physical Risks
Iguanas are generally not aggressive and typically avoid human contact. However, like most wild animals, they may exhibit defensive behaviors if threatened or cornered. This can include biting or scratching, particularly if someone attempts to handle or capture them. Such incidents are uncommon.
A more widespread health concern is their potential to carry Salmonella bacteria, present in their intestines and feces. Transmission to humans can occur through direct contact with an iguana, its droppings, or contaminated surfaces. This highlights the importance of hygiene after any contact with these reptiles or areas they frequent.
Impacts on Property and Environment
Iguanas cause significant damage to landscaping and infrastructure through their feeding and burrowing. They have a voracious appetite for plants, consuming ornamental foliage, flowers, and fruits, which can devastate gardens and commercial landscapes. Beyond vegetation, their digging poses a structural threat. Iguanas excavate burrows for shelter and nesting, often undermining foundations, sidewalks, seawalls, and canal banks, leading to costly repairs. Their droppings can also accumulate on outdoor surfaces like docks, boats, and pool areas, creating a nuisance.
The environmental impact of iguanas in Florida is substantial. As an invasive species, they compete with native wildlife for food and habitat, disrupting local ecosystems. They consume native plant species, including nickerbean, a host plant for the endangered Miami Blue butterfly. Iguanas have also been observed preying on the eggs and young of native birds and other reptiles, contributing to ecological imbalance. Their burrowing can disturb the nests of ground-nesting birds, further disrupting Florida’s natural environment.
Safe Interaction and Deterrence
Avoid approaching or feeding iguanas, as this encourages their presence on properties. Instead, make your property less appealing to these reptiles. Implementing physical barriers, such as robust fencing around gardens and screening pool enclosures, can prevent access. Sealing potential entry points into structures, like attics or crawl spaces, can also deter them from seeking shelter indoors.
Modify landscaping to reduce attractants. Planting species iguanas typically do not consume, such as citrus plants, crotons, or other tough, thick-leaved varieties, can be effective. Installing wire mesh around tree trunks can also prevent climbing. For persistent issues, professional nuisance wildlife trappers can safely and humanely remove iguanas. In Florida, green iguanas are not protected except by anti-cruelty laws, and landowners may humanely remove them from private property without a permit, though relocation is prohibited.