Florida Iguana Removal Program: 5,195 Cold-Stunned Reptiles

How the two‑day removal unfolded

After South Florida recorded unusually low temperatures that left many green iguanas cold‑stunned — a torpor-like state in which reptiles lose muscle control and often fall from trees — the FWC enacted Executive Order 26‑03 to temporarily lift permit requirements for capturing live, cold‑stunned iguanas on Feb. 1–2, 2026.

The agency established four designated drop‑off locations to receive captured animals. The Sunrise office processed roughly 3,882 iguanas (about 75% of the total), Tequesta processed 1,075, Marathon took 215, and Fort Myers took 23. These totals reflect both the geographic spread of invasive iguanas and where residents could safely locate and retrieve cold‑stunned animals. (FWC release; Fox News report.)

“The removal of over 5,000 of these nonnative lizards in such a short time span was only possible thanks to the coordinated efforts of many staff members in multiple FWC divisions and offices, our partners, and, of course, the many residents that took the time to collect and turn in cold‑stunned iguanas from their properties,” FWC Executive Director Roger Young told commissioners at a Feb. 4 meeting in Tallahassee. (FWC)

Treatment and disposition of collected iguanas

FWC staff assessed animals at collection sites. Live iguanas were transferred to permitted holders authorized to possess them; the agency coordinated transfers that included sales outside Florida where permit holders were authorized to receive them. Animals that could not be transferred were humanely euthanized by trained FWC personnel. (FWC release)

Public safety advisory: FWC cautioned residents not to bring cold‑stunned iguanas into homes to warm them; a recovering iguana can become defensive and cause injury with its tail, teeth and claws. The agency recommended contacting licensed wildlife control operators for help and reminded the public that, outside the temporary order, green iguanas are not protected and may be humanely killed by property owners or with landowner permission year‑round, subject to anti‑cruelty law. (FWC)

Why green iguanas are a concern

Green iguanas are a prohibited nonnative species in Florida because they damage native wildlife and private property. They chew plants, damage landscaping, leave droppings on docks, boats and pool areas, and dig burrows that undermine seawalls, drainage systems and roadways. Their burrowing and adaptability enable rapid spread into new habitats. Florida has recorded more than 600 nonnative fish and wildlife species, with the live animal trade linked to approximately 80% of those introductions. (FWC; Fox News.)

The cold‑stunning phenomenon and public safety

Cold‑stunned iguanas enter torpor when temperatures drop, appearing motionless on sidewalks, yards or streets. Despite appearing lethargic, a warmed or revived iguana may bite or lash out. FWC advised caution, suggested contacting professional wildlife control operators when possible, and provided guidance on safe handling. (FWC).

Investigative questions raised by the program

The rapid removal produced visible results but also prompts reasonable oversight questions that watchdogs or taxpayers may ask:

• Cost and logistics: How much did the temporary program cost in staff time, transport and site processing? The public release credited staff and partners but did not include specific cost figures. (FWC)
• Long‑term strategy: Is a rare weather‑driven removal window an effective long‑term approach for a reproducing invasive species that persists year‑round except during rare freezes? (FWC)
• Disposition and trade: Transfers and out‑of‑state sales were reported. What safeguards prevent transferred animals from contributing to further spread in recipient jurisdictions? (FWC)
• Public education and liability: Were homeowners adequately informed about handling risks and the limits of the temporary exemption during the brief order window? FWC issued cautions, but questions remain about outreach reach. (FWC)

FWC’s year‑round management guidance

Outside emergency exemptions like Executive Order 26‑03, Florida law allows property owners to humanely kill prohibited green iguanas on their land or with permission from landowners. The FWC recommends contacting licensed wildlife control professionals for safe, humane removal and emphasizes that anti‑cruelty laws still apply. (FWC.)

Implications for Paso Robles, California

Local property and infrastructure risks: Paso Robles does not have an established green iguana population, but Florida’s episode highlights how invasive reptiles can cause burrowing damage, landscaping loss and contamination of outdoor recreation areas. Homeowners with ponds, orchards and irrigated landscapes should be aware that nonnative species can arrive via the pet trade and cause similar problems if introduced. (FWC)

Pet trade and regulation: The case underscores the role of the live animal trade in introductions. Paso Robles and San Luis Obispo County officials may consider monitoring pet dealers, enforcing permits for exotic species, and educating buyers that releasing unwanted pets risks costly invasions — prevention is far cheaper than eradication. (FWC)

Emergency response planning: Florida’s fast, targeted removal offers a model: clear legal authority, designated drop‑off locations and public guidance can speed removal while protecting residents. Paso Robles officials might review ordinances and response plans to ensure exotic species incidents are covered. (FWC)

Fiscal prudence and homeowner responsibility: The program shows residents played a central role. Encouraging property owners to protect their land, report invasive animals and use licensed professionals can limit taxpayer exposure and long‑term costs. (FWC)

Public safety and animal welfare: FWC’s warnings about handling cold‑stunned animals stress the need for public education that balances resident safety and humane treatment. Local public health and animal control agencies should be prepared to advise residents about reporting, handling and legal options should exotic reptiles appear. (FWC)

Sources

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, “Green iguanas removed,” news release, Feb. 2026

Fox News, “Over 5,000 cold‑stunned iguanas removed in two days after state’s record freeze,” reporting on FWC totals and collection sites

Reporting by Times Media Service