Iguanas in Florida
Green iguanas are an invasive species in Florida. Here is what they actually do to a property and why removal is the only long-term answer.
Why iguanas are an invasive species in Florida
Green iguanas (Iguana iguana) are not native to Florida. They were introduced through the pet trade and escaped or released animals established breeding populations in the 1960s. Today they are present across most of the southern half of the state, with the highest densities in Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach, Lee, and Collier counties. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) classifies them as invasive and encourages humane removal from private property.
The damage iguanas actually cause
- Seawall and pool deck damage. Iguanas dig burrows along seawalls and under pool decks. Burrows undermine the structural integrity of the seawall or deck, leading to collapse if left long enough. This is the most expensive iguana-related repair Florida property owners face.
- Foundation undermining. Burrows dug along foundations and slab edges can weaken footings and lead to settling.
- Defoliation of ornamentals. Iguanas eat hibiscus, bougainvillea, orchids, citrus, and most flowering ornamentals. A single large iguana can strip a mature plant in days.
- Salmonella in droppings. Iguana droppings can carry Salmonella, especially around pool decks, patios, and outdoor furniture where families gather. Children and pets are at the highest risk.
- Accumulating populations. Females lay 20 to 70 eggs in a single clutch. Without removal, populations compound year over year.
Why DIY iguana removal usually fails
Iguanas are smart, fast, and territorial. They learn to avoid traps that aren't placed correctly along their travel paths, and removing one from a property without modifying habitat or installing exclusion just opens space for another. Professional removal pairs three things: live trapping (positioned along travel paths and placed to be ignored as part of the landscape until an iguana commits), habitat modification (removing the food, water, and shelter pulling iguanas in), and exclusion barriers (around seawalls, pool decks, foundations, and ornamental beds).
Are iguanas legally protected?
No. As an invasive species, green iguanas are not protected by Florida law, and the FWC encourages humane removal from private property. Our trapping is fully legal and follows FWC guidance.
What to do if you have iguanas on your property
Don't wait for the seawall to crack. Iguana populations grow fast in Florida's climate, and burrow damage compounds quickly. Call us for a free inspection. We will identify the burrows, assess structural exposure, and put a removal plus exclusion plan together that holds long-term.
Iguanas tearing up your property?
FWC-compliant humane removal. Free estimate. Call to schedule an inspection.