Comprehensive Neighborhood Iguana Removal Programs

Iguanas are a significant problem in Florida for several reasons:

1. Invasive Species

• Green iguanas are not native to Florida, and their presence disrupts the local ecosystem. Without natural predators in Florida, their population has exploded, leading to ecological imbalances​

2. Damage to Infrastructure  

• Iguanas dig extensive burrows, which can undermine sidewalks, seawalls, and foundations, leading to costly repairs for property owners. Their burrowing weakens structures, especially along canals and other water-adjacent properties

3. Threat to Native Species

• Iguanas compete with native wildlife for food and habitat. Their presence can put pressure on native species, which can lead to declines in local biodiversity. Additionally, iguanas eat the eggs of some birds and reptiles, further threatening vulnerable species.

4. Agricultural and Landscaping Damage

• Iguanas are herbivores and feed on a wide variety of plants, including those found in gardens, parks, and farms. They cause significant damage to agriculture, particularly fruit crops and ornamental plants. They also ravage landscaping, eating flowers, plants, and leaves​

5. Health and Safety Concerns

• Iguana droppings can pose health risks to humans and pets by spreading bacteria like Salmonella. Additionally, their droppings create unsanitary conditions in public spaces, pools, and private properties​

6. Potential Hazards

• Iguanas can become aggressive if threatened, and their sharp claws, tails, and teeth can inflict injuries. They also pose a traffic hazard, as they often bask on roads and are occasionally responsible for accidents.

Due to these reasons, Florida has taken steps to control the growing iguana population and mitigate the damage they cause to the environment and infrastructure.

Iguanas typically mate once a year, with the timing depending on their environment and species. Here's a breakdown of the mating habits of iguanas, especially focusing on the common Green Iguana (Iguana iguana):

1. Mating Season

• In the wild, green iguanas usually mate during the dry season, which helps ensure that their eggs hatch during the wet season when food is plentiful. In Florida and similar climates, the mating season usually occurs between late fall and winter, often from October to February.
• In their native habitats, the timing can vary slightly, but the dry season mating strategy is common.

2. Mating Behavior

• During the breeding season, male iguanas become more territorial and aggressive, displaying dominant behavior to attract females. They use head bobbing, dewlap extension (throat fan), and tail whipping as part of their courtship.
• Males will often mate with multiple females in their territory during the mating season.

3. Egg Laying

• After mating, a female iguana carries the fertilized eggs for about 65–85 days (gestation period) before laying them. Females typically lay 20 to 70 eggs in a burrow that they dig in sandy or soft soil.
• Once the eggs are laid, they incubate for about 90 to 120 days before hatching.

4. Mating in Captivity

• In captivity, iguanas may not strictly follow the seasonal pattern and may mate at various times throughout the year, depending on their environment, temperature, and light cycles.

In summary, iguanas mate once a year, typically during the dry season, with females laying eggs a few months later.

Iguanas have several natural predators, particularly in their native habitats in Central and South America, the Caribbean, and parts of Mexico. These predators help keep their populations in check. However, in regions where iguanas are invasive, such as Florida, they face far fewer natural threats. Here's a breakdown of common iguana predators:

1. Birds of Prey

• Hawks and eagles are some of the primary predators of iguanas. They can swoop down and snatch iguanas, especially juveniles, from trees or the ground.
• Ospreys and other large birds may also feed on iguanas near water.

2. Snakes

• Various snake species, such as boa constrictors and anacondas, prey on iguanas in their natural habitats. These snakes can ambush and constrict iguanas, especially smaller or juvenile individuals.

3. Mammals

• Raccoons, coatis, opossums, and foxes are known to prey on iguanas, particularly on their eggs and hatchlings. These mammals are opportunistic and will eat iguana eggs from burrows.
• Domestic dogs and cats can also become predators in urban areas where iguanas live near human settlements.

4. Large Reptiles

• In some cases, larger lizards and even crocodiles or caimans can prey on iguanas. This is more common in areas with significant reptilian biodiversity, like the Amazon.

5. Humans

• Humans hunt iguanas for food in some cultures, particularly in Central America and the Caribbean, where they are considered a delicacy ("bamboo chicken"). Invasive iguanas are also hunted or trapped to control their population.

6. Other Iguanas

• In rare cases, larger, more aggressive iguanas may cannibalize younger, smaller ones, although this behavior is not common.

Invasive Regions: Fewer Predator

In regions like Florida, where iguanas are invasive, they have fewer natural predators. Some predators, like domestic pets and a few bird species (such as hawks), may target them, but the lack of significant predators has contributed to their population explosion.

This imbalance is a key reason why iguana populations grow so quickly in non-native environments, where they face fewer threats than in their native ecosystems.

 The IggyTrap is designed for long-term use to manage and significantly reduce iguana populations. It's recommended to continue using the trap until the breeding population is substantially reduced, and even after that, extended use may be necessary depending on the iguana activity in surrounding areas. Since iguanas are prolific breeders, with females laying up to 75 eggs annually, consistent trapping is essential to prevent population rebound​.

This trap is intended to operate 24/7, providing an ongoing solution to prevent new iguanas from establishing themselves on your property​.

The iguana population explosion, particularly in regions like Florida and the Caribbean, can be attributed to a combination of factors that favor their rapid growth and spread. Here's a breakdown of the main reasons behind this surge:

1. Ideal Climate

Iguanas thrive in warm, tropical, and subtropical environments. In places like Florida, the climate is perfect for their survival year-round. They can easily adapt to both wet and dry conditions, allowing them to expand their range rapidly.

2. Lack of Natural Predators

In areas where iguanas are not native, like Florida, they face very few natural predators. In their native habitats, predators like hawks, snakes, and large mammals help control their numbers. Without these natural checks, iguanas can reproduce with minimal threat.

3. Human Introduction

Iguanas were introduced to places like Florida primarily through the exotic pet trade. Many of them were either released intentionally or escaped captivity. Once in the wild, they found favorable conditions to establish breeding populations.

4. High Reproductive Rate

Iguanas can reproduce quickly and in large numbers. Female green iguanas, for example, can lay 20-70 eggs per year, leading to exponential population growth if conditions are suitable.

5. Abundant Food Sources

Iguanas are primarily herbivores, feeding on plants, flowers, and fruits. In regions like Florida, where landscaping often includes lush vegetation and tropical plants, they have an ample food supply. Human activity, like planting non-native plants and maintaining gardens, unintentionally supports their growing numbers.

6. Urban Environments

Iguanas have adapted well to urban and suburban environments, where they find shelter in parks, backyards, canals, and rooftops. The presence of man-made structures often provides warmth and protection during cooler periods.

7. Mild Winters

In Florida and other areas experiencing population booms, winter temperatures rarely drop low enough to kill large numbers of iguanas. When cold snaps do occur, some die, but these events are infrequent and often not severe enough to control the population long-term.

These factors combined have led to an explosion in the iguana population, particularly in non-native regions where they have no significant predators or environmental limitations.

In Florida, iguanas are most commonly found in southern parts of the state, where the warm, tropical climate suits their needs. Some specific locations where iguanas are prevalent include:

1. South Florida

• Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach Counties are the epicenters of iguana populations. These areas provide ideal temperatures, abundant vegetation, and water sources like canals and waterways, all of which iguanas favor.

2. Florida Keys

• The Keys offer a perfect habitat for iguanas with their warm temperatures year-round and proximity to water. They are frequently seen in backyards, parks, and around mangroves.

3. Urban Areas

• Iguanas thrive in urban environments with lots of greenery and human infrastructure. They are common in residential areas, commercial properties, parks, and golf courses, where they have access to food, water, and shelter.

4. Near Canals and Waterways

• Iguanas are often seen near canals, lakes, and rivers, which provide them with both food and water. Many iguanas in Florida burrow into canal banks or along seawalls, which can lead to erosion and other damage.

5. Residential Gardens and Landscapes

• Homeowners often find iguanas in their yards, particularly those with lush vegetation. Iguanas feed on fruits, flowers, and plants commonly used in Florida landscaping.

Since iguanas are invasive, they have spread beyond their initial release areas and now pose a threat to native wildlife and infrastructure across these regions 

At this point getting "rid" of Iguanas is almost impossible. The better question is, what's the best way to manage and reduce the Iguana population. The first step is an aggressive trapping removal program. Followed up with preventative steps. IggyWrap Tree Wrap will take away an important part of the Iguana's habitat. Their home where they find safety. Lastly watching for new burrows and destroying them before the Iguana can lay their eggs and repopulate with 40-80 new babies.    

Getting rid of iguanas from your roof requires a combination of preventive measures and active deterrents. It is important to address this as soon as you notice Iguanas on your roof! Insurance will NOT cover ANY damage caused by Iguanas. Here are effective ways to address the issue:

1. Remove Access Points

• Trim Trees: Iguanas often use overhanging branches as a way to access roofs. Trim back any branches that are close to your roof to make it more difficult for them to reach it.
• Block Climbing Routes: Use metal sheets or smooth wraps (like IggyWrap or IggySkirt) around tree trunks, poles and Lanais near the roof. These materials make it difficult for iguanas to grip and climb​

2. Seal Entry Points

• Check for Gaps: Inspect your roof for openings, cracks, or holes where iguanas can enter. Seal these with caulk or wire mesh to prevent them from accessing your attic or roof space​.
• Cover Gutters and Vents: Use mesh or netting to cover gutters and attic vents, which can be potential hiding spots for iguanas.

3. Install Physical Barriers

• Anti-Iguana Fencing: Install fencing around the base of your home with a slight angle at the top to prevent iguanas from climbing up to the roof.
• IggyWrap: Applying IggyWrap or similar smooth materials around tree trunks or structures near your roof will prevent iguanas from climbing​

4. Professional Trapping

• Hire Professional Services: If the problem persists consider hiring professionals like IggyTrap. We offer trapping and removal services for iguanas that can target areas like your roof​

By using a combination of these techniques, you can effectively prevent and remove iguanas from your roof, minimizing the damage they cause.

To keep iguanas away from your pool, there are several effective strategies you can implement:

1. Remove Attractants

• Food Sources: Iguanas are herbivores, so removing plants that attract them is essential. Avoid planting iguana-favorite vegetation like hibiscus, bougainvillea, and fruits near the pool area. Instead, consider iguana-resistant plants such as citrus trees, milkweed, and crotons​
• Water: Iguanas are drawn to water sources. Make sure to cover your pool when not in use and ensure the surrounding area is dry.

2. Physical Barriers

• Fencing: Install fencing around your pool or property. Ensure the fence is smooth and at least 4-6 feet high, as iguanas are strong climbers. Adding a slanted top can further discourage them from climbing over.
• Tree Wrapping (IggyWrap): Wrapping trees with smooth materials like metal or clear plastic (such as IggyWrap) prevents iguanas from climbing and using trees as a path to enter your yard​
• Screens/Netting: Consider installing fine mesh screens or netting to block access to areas around your pool​

3. Repellents

• Water Sprays: Iguanas dislike being sprayed with water. Installing motion-activated sprinklers around the pool area can help deter them.
• Predator Decoys: Place plastic owls, snakes, or even a dog around the pool area to scare iguanas away. Be sure to move these decoys around regularly to maintain their effectiveness​

4. Professional Removal

• Trapping: Hiring professionals like IggyTrap can provide long-term solutions by setting traps designed specifically for iguanas and safely removing them from your property​
• Exclusion Techniques: IggyTrap can offer services to Iggy-proof your pool area, including sealing burrows and installing  IggySkirt .

By implementing a combination of these methods, you can significantly reduce the chances of iguanas invading your pool area and causing damage. 

Catching an iguana requires patience, the right tools, and a humane approach. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it safely and effectively:

1. Use a Live Animal Trap

• Live traps (like the IggyTrap) are the most common and effective way to catch iguanas. These traps are designed to capture the iguana without harming it.
• Bait the trap with fruits or vegetables such as mangoes, bananas, or leafy greens, which are attractive to iguanas.
• Set the trap in areas where iguanas frequently visit, like near burrows vegetation, or water sources.

2. Lure with Food

• Iguanas are herbivores, so using fresh fruits and leafy vegetables as bait can draw them toward traps or a catch point. They are especially fond of hibiscus flowers, mangoes, bananas, and lettuce.

3. Manual Capture

• If you're skilled and comfortable, you can catch smaller iguanas using a snare pole or net. Approach the iguana slowly and use the pole or net to safely and gently catch it.
• Use gloves and protective clothing to avoid scratches or bites from the iguana's claws and teeth.

4. Time of Day

• Iguanas are cold-blooded, so they are less active in the early morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler. This is the best time to catch them, as they move more slowly.

5. Professional Assistance

• If trapping or capturing an iguana seems challenging, it’s a good idea to hire a professional iguana removal service like IggyTrap.

6. Prevention

• Use deterrents like IggyWrap, which prevents iguanas from climbing trees, or block access to burrows and favorite nesting areas to stop them from returning after capture.

Always ensure that any method you use is humane and consider consulting local wildlife agencies to handle iguana control safely and legally.

Iguanas are digging holes in your yard primarily for nesting and burrowing purposes. Here’s why they engage in this behavior:

1. Nesting Behavior

Female iguanas dig extensive burrows to lay their eggs. These burrows are typically 3 to 5 feet deep and provide a safe, warm environment for incubation. Iguanas prefer sandy or loose soil, which is easier for them to dig through, making many yards ideal spots for nesting.

2. Temperature Regulation

Iguanas also dig burrows to regulate their body temperature. Burrows offer a cooler, more stable environment than the surface, protecting them from extreme heat or cold. In your yard, these burrows can serve as temporary shelters.

3. Safety and Shelter

Burrows offer iguanas protection from predators and disturbances. Even in urban areas, they seek out hiding places, and a well-dug burrow in a yard provides them with safety from potential threats or harsh weather.

4. Natural Behavior in Urban Environments

In regions where iguanas are invasive, like Florida, they have adapted to human environments. Your yard might mimic their natural habitat, with loose soil, vegetation, and warmth, encouraging them to dig. Urbanization has displaced many natural nesting sites, leading them to search for alternative areas, like your yard, for their burrowing needs.

5. Breeding Season

During the breeding season, which typically occurs in the spring or summer, female iguanas are particularly active in finding suitable nesting sites. This period of increased digging may coincide with their reproductive cycle, making your yard a target.

Unfortunately, iguana burrowing can cause damage to lawns, gardens, and even structural foundations in some cases, making it a concern for many homeowners.

The first step is an aggressive trapping removal program. Followed up with preventative steps. IggyWrap Tree Wrap will take away an important part of the Iguana's habitat. Their home where they find safety. Lastly watching for new burrows and destroying them before the Iguana can lay their eggs and repopulate with 40-80 new babies.  See our dedicated to this subject.

A tree wrap is a barrier designed to prevent iguanas (or other climbing pests) from gaining a foothold on tree trunks. These wraps are often made of materials like IggyWrap or metal, which create a slippery surface that iguanas cannot grip. One effective option is the IggyWrap, a clear polymer product that wraps around tree trunks and prevents iguanas from climbing without altering the tree's appearance. It is commonly used in regions like Florida, where iguanas are invasive and cause damage to landscaping and trees​ 

How to Install a Tree Wrap:

1. Choose the Material: Use clear plastic (like IggyWrap) or metal sheeting that creates a smooth surface.
2. Wrap the Tree Trunk: Secure the wrap around the base of the tree, typically about 18 inches from the ground.
3. Ensure a Snug Fit: The wrap should be tight enough to stay in place but should not harm the tree by cutting into its bark.
4. Height: Cover the trunk to a height of 18–24 inches, depending on the tree’s size.

This method prevents iguanas from climbing the tree and damaging leaves, fruit, or flowers.

To stop iguanas from climbing trees, there are several effective methods homeowners and property managers can use:

1. Iguana Tree Wrap (IggyWrap)

• Using a smooth, slippery material like IggyWrap, a product specifically designed to prevent iguanas from gaining traction on tree trunks, is a highly effective solution. This clear polymer wrap encircles the tree, preventing iguanas from climbing by making the surface too smooth to grip​

2. Metal Barriers

• You can wrap tree trunks with metal sheets at least 18-24 inches wide around the base of the tree. The smooth surface prevents iguanas from climbing, as they can't get a firm hold on it. This issue with metal barriers is they are not healthy for the trees.

3. Chicken Wire Cones

• Placing chicken wire cones or inverted metal cones around the trunk of the tree can also prevent iguanas from climbing. The cones are wide at the base and narrow at the top, stopping iguanas from progressing further up the tree.

4. Prune Overhanging Branches

• Iguanas often access trees via overhanging branches from neighboring structures. By trimming these branches and keeping trees away from fences, roofs, or other pathways, you make it harder for iguanas to climb​

Using a combination of these methods can help prevent iguanas from accessing trees and causing damage to the landscape.

Male and female iguanas have distinct differences, which can help you determine their sex. Here are some key differences between male and female iguanas:

1. Size and Body Shape

• Males: Generally larger and bulkier than females. Adult males can grow up to 5-7 feet, with broader heads and thicker necks.
• Females: Smaller, usually around 3-5 feet in length, with a more streamlined body shape.

2. Dewlap (Throat Fan)

• Males: Have a larger, more prominent dewlap that extends from under the chin. This dewlap is often used to attract mates or to display dominance.
• Females: The dewlap is smaller and less pronounced in comparison to males.

3. Femoral Pores

• Males: Larger, more noticeable femoral pores along the underside of the thighs. These secrete a waxy substance during mating season.
• Females: Femoral pores are smaller and less visible.

4. Head and Jowl Size

• Males: Have larger jowls (cheek muscles) and broader heads, especially as they mature.
• Females: Their heads and jowls remain smaller and less defined.

5. Behavior

• Males: More territorial and aggressive, especially during breeding season.
• Females: Tend to be calmer and less aggressive.

There are several species of iguanas, each with unique characteristics and habitats. Here are some of the most well-known types of iguanas:

1. Green Iguana (Iguana iguana)

• Habitat: Central and South America, Caribbean islands.
• Description: The most common and recognizable iguana species, known for its green scales (though they can vary in color). They are large, growing up to 6-7 feet.
• Popularity: Common as pets.

2. Blue Iguana (Cyclura lewisi)

• Habitat: Cayman Islands.
• Description:  Known for its striking blue or grayish-blue color. This species is critically endangered and found only in the wild in the Cayman Islands.
• Size: They can grow up to 5 feet.

3. Marine Iguana (Amblyrhynchus cristatus)

• Habitat: Galápagos Islands.
• Description: Unique for being the only iguana that swims and feeds on algae in the ocean. They have black or dark gray skin to absorb heat after swimming.
• Special Traits: Known for their salt-excreting glands.

4. Desert Iguana (Dipsosaurus dorsalis)

• Habitat: Southwestern United States and Mexico.
• Description: Light brown or grayish in color, this iguana thrives in desert environments. They are smaller, reaching about 16 inches in length.

5. Fiji Banded Iguana (Brachylophus fasciatus)

• Habitat: Fiji Islands.
• Description: Bright green with white or pale blue bands, they are arboreal and spend most of their time in trees. This species is also endangered.

6. Spiny-Tailed Iguana (Ctenosaura spp.)

• Habitat: Central America, parts of Mexico.
• Description: Known for the spiny scales along their tail. They come in various colors and sizes, depending on the specific species within the genus.

7. Lesser Antillean Iguana (Iguana delicatissima)

• Habitat: Lesser Antilles in the Caribbean.
• Description: Similar to the green iguana but with more delicate features, including smaller scales and a smoother appearance. They are currently endangered due to habitat loss and hybridization with the green iguana.

Each species has adapted to its specific environment, making iguanas a diverse group of reptiles with fascinating traits.

Iguana poop can provide important insights into the health and diet of the animal. Here's what you need to know about iguana feces:

1. Appearance

• Solid Feces: Iguana poop typically consists of two parts: a solid portion (feces) and a liquid portion (urine). The feces are usually dark brown to black, indicating the digestion of plant matter, which forms the bulk of an iguana's diet.
• Urates: This is the white or cream-colored part of the poop, which is the iguana’s way of excreting uric acid instead of liquid urine. Healthy iguanas produce a soft, chalky white urate alongside the feces.

2. Consistency

• Healthy Poop: Should be firm, well-formed, and easy to distinguish between the feces and urates.
• Soft or Watery Poop: Can indicate issues such as stress, changes in diet or illness. Diarrhea in iguanas may be a sign of parasites or infections.
• Hard, Dry Poop: May signal dehydration, requiring the iguana to drink more water or increase the moisture in its food.

3. Frequency

• Regular Bowel Movements: Iguanas typically poop daily, though this can vary based on their diet, temperature, and environment.
• Changes in Frequency: A lack of bowel movements or constipation could be due to dehydration, improper diet, or low temperatures in their enclosure, affecting digestion.

4. Smell

• Odor: Iguana poop has a mild odor but should not be excessively foul. A strong or offensive smell may indicate digestive problems or infection.

Regularly checking an iguana’s poop is an easy way to monitor its health, especially for signs of parasites, dehydration, or dietary issues.

Yes, iguana poop can be dangerous, particularly because it can carry bacteria such as Salmonella, which poses a health risk to humans.

1. Salmonella Risk

• Transmission: Iguanas can shed Salmonella bacteria in their feces, even if they appear healthy. Humans can contract this bacterium by handling iguanas, touching surfaces contaminated with iguana feces, or cleaning their enclosure without proper precautions.
• Symptom in Humans: Salmonella infection (salmonellosis) can cause symptoms like diarrhea, abdominal cramps, fever, and vomiting. It is particularly dangerous for children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems.

2. Precautions

• Hygiene: Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling an iguana or cleaning its enclosure.
• Sanitation: Clean and disinfect surfaces that come into contact with iguana feces. Avoid eating or drinking while handling iguanas.
• Avoid Cross-Contamination: If you have an iguana, keep it away from areas where food is prepared or consumed to reduce the risk of contamination.

3. Other Risks

• While Salmonella is the primary concern, feces can also harbor other pathogens, so it's essential to handle iguana waste safely.

With proper hygiene and care, the risks can be managed effectively.

Florida has implemented programs to control the invasive iguana population, and while there isn't a standard payment for capturing iguanas, various efforts have provided financial incentives for their removal.

1. Iguana Removal Programs

• Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC): The FWC encourages residents to humanely kill iguanas on their property, but they do not pay individuals directly for doing so. However, they do work with licensed contractors for iguana removal, who may receive payment for their services.

2. Bounty Programs in Local Areas

• Local Bounties: Some local governments in South Florida, like in Miami-Dade County, have considered offering bounties or hired contractors to remove iguanas. For example:
  • Key Biscayne has paid contractors to remove iguanas.

Florida’s does not pay for iguana removal, but individuals working through licensed channels or local government programs can receive compensation.

Yes, iguanas are considered an invasive species in several areas, particularly in Florida. The most problematic species is the Green Iguana (Iguana iguana), which has caused significant ecological and infrastructural damage in the state.

1. Why are Iguanas Invasive?

• Non-Native Species: Iguanas are not native to Florida. They originate from Central and South America and the Caribbean. They were introduced through the pet trade, and some escaped or were released into the wild.
• Rapid Reproduction: Iguanas reproduce quickly, laying dozens of eggs per year, which has led to a population explosion in places like South Florida, where they thrive in the warm climate.

2. Environmental Impact

• Damage to Vegetation: Iguanas feed on a wide variety of plants, including ornamental plants and crops. This can harm native species and disrupt local ecosystems.
• Erosion and Infrastructure Damage: Iguanas burrow into the ground, causing damage to sidewalks, seawalls, and building foundations, which can lead to erosion and costly repairs.
• Threat to Native Species: Iguanas compete with native wildlife for food and habitat. Their presence disrupts the balance of local ecosystems.

3. Efforts to Control Iguanas

• Florida considers iguanas a nuisance species and allows for humane removal and euthanasia of these animals. Various programs and efforts are in place to control their population, including public awareness campaigns, bounty programs, and contracting professional trappers.

Their invasive status is primarily due to their rapid population growth, environmental impact, and the damage they cause to urban infrastructure. 

Iguanas are problematic for Florida for several key reasons, primarily due to their status as an invasive species. Here’s why iguanas are considered bad for the state:

1. Ecological Damage

• Disruption to Native Wildlife: Green iguanas compete with native species for food and habitat. Their large populations displace native wildlife, which can disrupt local ecosystems.
• Plant Destruction: Iguanas are primarily herbivores, feeding on a wide variety of plants. They consume leaves, flowers, and fruit, which can damage gardens, landscaping, and native vegetation. Their appetite for endangered plant species poses a threat to local biodiversity.

2. Agricultural Impact

• Crop Damage: Iguanas pose a significant threat to agricultural crops. They are known to raid farms and damage valuable fruit, vegetable, and ornamental plant production. This leads to economic losses for farmers and property owners.

3. Structural and Infrastructural Damage

• Burrowing and Erosion: Iguanas dig extensive burrows, especially along canal banks and near roads, which weakens infrastructure. Their burrowing habits damage seawalls, sidewalks, and building foundations, leading to erosion and costly repairs.
• Clogging of Pipes: Iguanas can invade storm drains, causing blockages that disrupt drainage systems, especially during heavy rains or storms.

4. Health and Safety Risks

• Feces: Iguanas leave droppings on patios, decks, docks, and in swimming pools. Their feces can carry harmful bacteria, like Salmonella, which poses a health risk to humans.
• Aggressive Behavior: Although generally not dangerous, iguanas can become aggressive when cornered or threatened. They have sharp teeth and claws, and their strong tails can deliver painful whips.

5. Population Explosion

• Rapid Reproduction: Iguanas reproduce quickly, laying up to 70 eggs per year. With few natural predators in Florida, their population has grown uncontrollably in areas like Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach counties.

6. Economic Costs

• Costly Control Efforts: Managing iguana populations is expensive. Municipalities and property owners spend significant amounts of money on removal, repairs, and control measures. The state has contracted professionals and created bounty programs, but these efforts are costly and ongoing.

In summary, iguanas are harmful to Florida’s environment, economy, and infrastructure due to their rapid population growth, plant destruction, burrowing habits, and health risks.

Green iguanas (Iguana iguana) arrived in Florida primarily through the pet trade and accidental releases. Here’s a breakdown of how they became established in the state:

1. Pet Trade

• Exotic Pets: Green iguanas were imported into Florida from Central and South America as exotic pets starting in the 1960s. They became popular due to their vibrant appearance and herbivorous diet, which made them seem easy to care for.
• Escapes and Releases: Over time, many pet iguanas either escaped or were intentionally released into the wild by owners who were unprepared for their large size and care needs. Juvenile iguanas can be easy to manage, but adults can grow up to 6-7 feet, leading some owners to release them when they become difficult to care for.

2. Hurricanes and Storms

• Accidental Release: Natural disasters like hurricanes and tropical storms in Florida have led to the destruction of pet stores and breeding facilities. During these events, iguanas (along with other exotic animals) escaped or were released into the environment, further contributing to their spread.

3. Suitable Climate

• Thriving in Florida: Florida’s warm, tropical climate, similar to the iguanas’ native habitats in Central and South America, allowed them to survive and thrive in the wild. The lack of natural predators in Florida further contributed to their rapid population growth.

4. Breeding and Expansion

• Rapid Reproduction: Once in the wild, green iguanas adapted quickly. They are prolific breeders, with females laying dozens of eggs each year. This, combined with favorable environmental conditions, has led to a rapid increase in their population across South Florida, particularly in areas like Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach counties.

In summary, green iguanas got to Florida mainly through the pet trade, accidental releases, and natural disasters, and they have thrived due to Florida's favorable climate and lack of predators.

To permanently get rid of iguanas in Florida, you'll need to follow a multifaceted approach that focuses on eliminating attractants, modifying the environment, and, if necessary, using legal removal methods. Here's a detailed guide:

1. Remove Food Sources and Attractants:

• Avoid Feeding Iguanas: Do not intentionally or unintentionally feed iguanas by leaving out food that might attract them.
• Secure Garbage and Compost: Ensure all trash cans are tightly sealed, and compost bins are covered.
• Manage Fruit Trees: Remove fallen fruit and consider using barriers like nets or wire mesh around the base of trees.

2. Modify Landscaping:

• Prune Trees and Shrubs: Trim vegetation away from your home, fences, and pool areas to reduce access and hiding spots.
• Use Iguana-Resistant Plants: Avoid planting vegetation they like, such as hibiscus or bougainvillea. Instead, choose plants like citrus, crotons, and oleander, which are less attractive to iguanas.
• Remove or Modify Hiding Spots: Eliminate piles of rocks, wood, or dense vegetation where iguanas may hide or nest.

3. Install Physical Barriers:

• Fencing: Install a smooth fence at least 4 feet high with an outward slant to      prevent iguanas from climbing over. You can also add a slick surface like metal sheeting to existing fences.
• Tree Guards: Wrap trees with smooth metal or plastic sheeting to prevent iguanas from climbing - IggyWrap

4. Use Deterrents:

• Repellents: Apply commercial iguana repellents containing ingredients like garlic, pepper, or neem oil around your property, especially on plants and near entry points.
• Visual and Audio Deterrents: Use reflective objects, wind chimes, or motion-activated sprinklers and lights to scare iguanas away.

5. Trapping and Removal:

• Humane Traps: Use live traps baited with fruits like mango, papaya, or banana. Check the traps daily and dispose of the iguanas humanely according to local regulations.
• Euthanasia: In Florida, it is legal to humanely euthanize iguanas on your property without a permit. This should be done following the American Veterinary Medical Association's guidelines. If you're not comfortable doing this yourself, contact a professional.

6. Hire a Professional:

• For a more permanent solution, consider hiring a licensed wildlife removal professional. They can safely and humanely remove iguanas and provide additional guidance on preventing their return.

7. Prevent Re-Entry:

• Repair Openings: Seal any holes, gaps, or cracks in your home, roof, or fence that could provide entry points.
• Regular Maintenance: Continuously monitor your property for signs of iguanas and reapply deterrents or barriers as necessary.

8. Legal Considerations:

• State Regulations: Green iguanas are not protected in Florida except by anti-cruelty laws and can be removed from private property without special permits. However, relocating iguanas is illegal, so they must be euthanized or handled by a licensed professional.
• Check Local Laws: Always confirm with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) for the most current regulations and best practices.

9. Educate and Collaborate with Neighbors:

• Community Action: This is the real key - Work with neighbors to implement similar measures. If they maintain environments that attract iguanas, it will be difficult to control them on your property alone.

By combining these steps, you can effectively reduce or eliminate the iguana population on your property in Florida and discourage them from returning in the future.