Florida removes more than 5,000 invasive green iguanas in two days under temporary permit exemption
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission removed 5,195 invasive green iguanas from state ecosystems Feb. 1–2, 2026, after a temporary permit exemption during a cold snap, reflecting strong public participation and targeted agency response to protect native wildlife.
Key takeaways
- Total collected: 5,195 green iguanas were turned in to FWC drop-off sites during Feb. 1–2, 2026 (FWC news release).
- Executive Order: EO 26-03 temporarily suspended permits for possession and transport of live, cold-stunned iguanas for the two-day window.
- Major collection sites: Sunrise — 3,882; Tequesta — 1,075; Marathon — 215; Fort Myers — 23 (FWC tallies).
- Handling: Animals were transferred to permitted holders for authorized uses when possible; others were humanely euthanized. FWC urged safety precautions when handling stunned iguanas (FWC).
What happened during the two-day collection window
A short period of unusually cold weather in South Florida left many nonnative green iguanas cold-stunned and immobilized. In response, Gov. Ron DeSantis issued Executive Order 26-03 on Jan. 30, 2026, which allowed residents to collect live, cold-stunned iguanas without permits for delivery directly to staffed FWC drop-off sites on Feb. 1 and Feb. 2 during specified hours.
“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… 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 said at the Feb. 4 commission meeting.
Where the animals were turned in
Four FWC locations received the animals after the final tally: the Sunrise office (near Fort Lauderdale) received the majority — 3,882 iguanas — accounting for nearly 75% of the total. Tequesta reported 1,075, the Marathon drop-off at the FWC South Florida Regional Lab reported 215, and Fort Myers received 23. An earlier announcement had listed five drop-off sites, but final tallies reflect four active locations (FWC; EO details).
How the FWC handled the surrendered iguanas
FWC staff processed and triaged incoming animals on site. Where feasible, iguanas were transferred to permitted holders for out-of-state sale or other authorized uses. Individuals that could not be transferred were humanely euthanized by trained personnel. Media reporting corroborated the agency’s handling decisions (FWC; WUSF; Popular Science).
Legal and safety rules under the executive order
EO 26-03 temporarily lifted permit requirements only for possession and transport of live, cold-stunned green iguanas when delivered directly to FWC offices during specified hours. Collectors were required to have landowner permission to access private property and to handle animals humanely during capture and transport. The order expired after the two-day window, and FWC stopped accepting live iguanas under the temporary rule (full EO and guidance).
Why Florida is acting on green iguanas
Green iguanas are a prohibited, invasive species in Florida. They damage native habitats and wildlife, burrow into yards and infrastructure, and feed on landscaping and crops. The FWC notes the state hosts more than 600 nonnative species, with ongoing management aimed at protecting ecosystems and the economy (FWC background).
Public reaction and on-the-ground reporting
Local video and news coverage showed residents collecting stunned iguanas during the cold snap and delivering them to FWC sites. Reporting tracked the agency’s tallies and noted euthanasia for animals that could not be transferred or used (example video; WUSF reporting; analysis).
Implications for the United States
Economic impact — Agriculture and property
Invasive reptiles like green iguanas can damage crops, yards and infrastructure. Rapid removal can reduce near-term repair costs for property owners and farmers, helping protect livelihoods in rural communities dependent on agriculture and tourism (FWC).
Political consequences — Local control and regulatory response
The use of an executive order to temporarily suspend permits shows how state agencies can act quickly during emergencies. Some readers may view the EO as a pragmatic, time-limited tool that balances enforcement of prohibited-species rules with empowering residents to help in short-term crises (EO text).
Social effects — Community action and public safety
Community participation sped removal efforts and saved staff time, but FWC emphasized safety: do not bring stunned iguanas indoors to warm them, as they can recover quickly and may lash out with tails, teeth and claws. Collectors must obtain landowner permission before accessing private property (FWC guidance).
Cultural relevance — Values and humane treatment
For many residents, direct action to protect property aligns with self-reliance values. FWC stressed humane handling and trained euthanasia where necessary, attempting to balance compassion with practical management of a prohibited species (FWC notes).
Practical applications — What property owners should know
Landowners may humanely kill invasive green iguanas on private property year-round, must comply with anti-cruelty laws, or hire professional wildlife control operators. FWC maintains deterrence tips and resources at MyFWC.com/Nonnatives to reduce attraction and limit damage.
Next steps and continuing priorities
FWC’s rapid-response effort removed thousands of iguanas during an unusual cold event, but long-term control requires ongoing public education, targeted removal, permitted-use partnerships, and stronger controls on the nonnative animal trade. Weather events can open short windows for intensive removal; clear rules and rapid agency-resident coordination help make those windows effective (FWC).
