Iguanas are a noticeable part of the landscape in Key West. These reptiles, while intriguing to observe, are not native to the Florida Keys and pose significant challenges to the local environment and infrastructure. Their presence is a topic of ongoing discussion and management.
The Presence of Iguanas in Key West
Key West is home to green iguanas (Iguana iguana). These non-native lizards became established through two main ways: as stowaways on ships carrying fruit from Central and South America, particularly in the 1960s and 1970s, and from the pet trade, either escaping or being intentionally released by owners.
Green iguanas are large reptiles, with adults reaching 3.9 to 5.6 feet in length, including their long tails. Their coloration is bright green in juveniles, varying to olive, brown, orange, or pink in adults. They have distinctive features like a row of spikes down their back and tail, and a prominent dewlap under their chin. These lizards are often seen basking in the sun near waterways, on seawalls, and in trees.
Their Ecological Impact
Iguanas have negative consequences for Key West’s local ecosystem and human infrastructure. As herbivores, they consume a wide range of native plants, flowers, and fruits, damaging landscaping and natural vegetation. This feeding behavior depletes food sources and competes with indigenous species for resources.
Beyond plants, iguanas eat bird eggs and tree snails, threatening native bird populations and endangered species like the Miami blue butterfly. Their burrowing habits cause structural damage, as they dig extensive burrows that undermine sidewalks, seawalls, foundations, and canal banks. Additionally, their droppings can contaminate swimming pools and surfaces, carrying harmful bacteria like Salmonella.
Current Management Efforts
Managing the iguana population in Key West involves coordinated efforts from state agencies and local communities. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) considers green iguanas an invasive species. They are not protected in Florida, except by anti-cruelty laws.
Property owners are encouraged by the FWC to humanely remove iguanas from their property year-round, without needing a permit. This includes methods like trapping or shooting, provided they are done humanely, ensuring immediate loss of consciousness followed by destruction of the brain. Relocation and release of captured iguanas elsewhere in Florida are prohibited. Florida Statute 379.3761 and FWC rules regulate nonnative species. Since April 29, 2021, green iguanas are listed as “Prohibited,” meaning they cannot be acquired as personal pets, though limited exceptions exist for existing owners or commercial entities. The FWC also contracts for iguana removal services on public lands in the Florida Keys.