Apr 29, 2021 · Green iguanas are not native to Florida and are considered an invasive species due to their impacts to native wildlife. Like all nonnative reptile species, green iguanas are not protected in Florida except by anti-cruelty law and can be humanely killed on private property with landowner permission.

Sep 10, 2019 · Green iguanas are wreaking havoc on seawalls, crops, sidewalks and urban landscaping. They can transmit salmonella to humans when they poop in swimming pools, canals or ponds (which they naturally do). A woman even pulled one out her toilet!

Mar 22, 2025 · The Green Iguana Invasion: Why Florida is Under Siege Green iguanas are a significant problem in Florida primarily due to their status as an invasive species. Their presence leads to substantial ecological and economic damage. They cause harm by destroying native vegetation, displacing native wildlife, and compromising infrastructure through their burrowing …

Nov 26, 2019 · The green iguana is the most in-your-face invasive species in South Florida. Unlike the infamous but elusive Burmese python, iguanas freely mingle with people — and often act like they...

Feb 27, 2023 · Florida’s most prolific iguana is the most substantial of all invasive species. The green iguana grows over 5 feet (1.5 meters) and can weigh up to 15 pounds (6.8 kilograms).

Green iguanas adversely impact native wildlife by competing with and preying on native plants and wildlife including vulnerable species. Green iguanas are primarily herbivores that consume foliage or flowers, but adult green iguanas can also feed opportunistically on protected bird eggs, other small animals, and dead animals.

Feb 20, 2025 · Green Iguana (Iguana iguana) Native to: Central and South America Invasive in: Florida and other warm states These cold-blooded invaders are eating Florida’s native plants and destabilizing seawalls. The solution? Iguana stew. Their meat is often called “chicken of the trees” for its mild flavor.

Jan 19, 2024 · Green iguanas are considered an invasive species in Florida. This is due to the negative impacts they have on Florida’s native wildlife. Additionally, green iguanas are considered a nuisance by many property owners because of the damage they cause to commercial and residential landscapes.

Mar 19, 2025 · The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is seeking public feedback from interested parties on proposed rule changes for nonnative species, including Prohibited green iguanas and Argentine black and white tegus. Green iguanas and tegus are invasive reptiles that are not native to Florida.

3 days ago · Abstract and Figures Green iguanas ( Iguana iguana ), large-bodied lizards native to South and Central America, have established multiple invasive populations worldwide.