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Florida Cold Snap Triggers Iguana Falls and Emergency Removal Order

The freeze prompted wildlife officials to temporarily relax permits so immobilized invasive iguanas can be collected quickly.

Overview

  • Arctic air tied to a bomb cyclone drove temperatures near or below freezing across Florida, with rare snow flurries reported around Tampa Bay.
  • The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission issued an executive order allowing residents and professionals to capture and transport immobilized green iguanas without standard permits.
  • FWC designated official drop-off sites, including its Fort Myers office, to manage collections under specific handling and safety protocols.
  • Officials say most collected iguanas are humanely euthanized, with a small number transferred to permitted individuals for legal commerce outside the state.
  • Authorities warn people not to bring stunned iguanas into homes or cars because they can quickly revive and injure handlers, urging use of official collection points.