Imagine waking up to find frozen iguanas falling from trees—a bizarre yet real scenario currently unfolding in Florida. But here's where it gets controversial: the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has issued Executive Order 26-03, allowing residents to collect and surrender these cold-stunned green iguanas without a permit during an unprecedented cold snap. Why does this matter? Green iguanas are classified as a Prohibited invasive species in Florida, wreaking havoc on the state’s ecosystem and economy. This temporary program, running February 1 (9 a.m. to noon) and February 2 (8 a.m. to 4 p.m.), offers a rare chance for the public to participate in invasive species management. And this is the part most people miss: it’s not just about removing these reptiles—it’s part of a larger battle against Florida’s 139 established nonnative species, 80% of which entered through the live animal trade.
Understanding the 'Frozen' Phenomenon
When temperatures plummet near freezing, green iguanas enter a state of torpor, losing muscle control and appearing lifeless. This makes them easier to collect, but here’s the catch: they can recover faster than expected. Once warmed, these reptiles become defensive, using their sharp teeth, claws, and powerful tails to protect themselves. The FWC warns against bringing them indoors or into vehicles unless transporting them directly to designated drop-off locations.
How to Safely Collect Iguanas
If you’re considering joining this effort, here’s what you need to know: wear protective gloves, long pants, and long-sleeved shirts to avoid injury. Place iguanas in secure, breathable cloth sacks, seal them tightly, and transport them in a locked secondary container labeled 'Prohibited Reptiles.' Collection is limited to property owners or those with explicit landowner permission, including FWC-managed properties in South and Southwest Florida. Transport must be immediate to prevent the iguanas from regaining mobility.
Where to Drop Them Off
Five FWC facilities are accepting surrendered iguanas:
1. FWC South Florida Regional Lab, Marathon
2. FWC Office, Sunrise
3. FWC Tequesta Field Lab, Tequesta
4. FWC Law Enforcement Office, Fort Myers
5. FWC Southwest Regional Office, Lakeland
Collected iguanas will be humanely euthanized or, in rare cases, transferred to permitted facilities for live animal sales.
Year-Round Options and the Bigger Picture
While this executive order provides a temporary permit exemption, Florida law already allows property owners to humanely kill green iguanas year-round without a permit. The FWC emphasizes that this initiative is for those who prefer not to euthanize the reptiles themselves. Beyond this program, residents can hire professional wildlife control operators or visit MyFWC.com/Nonnatives for tips on deterring iguanas.
What Happens Next?
The collection program ends Monday evening, after which standard regulations resume. The FWC continues to monitor Florida’s invasive species crisis, with over 600 nonnative species reported statewide. This effort highlights the ongoing challenge of protecting native ecosystems, preventing infrastructure damage, and safeguarding public health.
Food for Thought
Is euthanizing invasive species like iguanas the most ethical solution, or should we explore alternative methods? How can we better regulate the live animal trade to prevent future invasions? Share your thoughts in the comments—this is a conversation that needs your voice!
