Green iguanas may look exotic and harmless, but in South Florida they are a highly destructive invasive species. Since their introduction decades ago, they have rapidly multiplied and are now causing serious harm to native wildlife, ecosystems, and residential properties across Palm Beach, Broward, and Miami-Dade counties.
At SoFlo Iguana Pros, we specialize in humane, FWC-compliant iguana removal and long-term exclusion. We understand not just how to remove iguanas, but why their removal is ecologically and practically essential for protecting Florida’s native species and your property.
This article explains the real impact green iguanas have on native wildlife and why professional removal is crucial for maintaining balance in South Florida’s environment.
The Invasive Nature of Green Iguanas in Florida
The green iguana (Iguana iguana) is native to Central and South America. It was introduced to Florida through the pet trade and intentional releases. With no natural predators and ideal warm, humid conditions, their population exploded.
Unlike native lizards, green iguanas:
- Grow up to 5–6 feet long and weigh over 15 pounds
- Reproduce rapidly (one female can lay 20–70 eggs per year)
- Eat a wide variety of plants, flowers, and vegetables
- Dig extensive burrows that damage infrastructure
Because they are invasive, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) classifies them as a nuisance species, allowing legal removal on private property.
How Green Iguanas Harm Native Species
1. Competition for Food and Habitat Green iguanas consume large amounts of vegetation, directly competing with native herbivores such as the gopher tortoise, Florida box turtle, and various birds. They often strip native plants that serve as food sources and nesting material for local wildlife.
2. Predation on Native Eggs and Hatchlings Iguanas are opportunistic and will eat the eggs and young of native birds, reptiles, and even small mammals. They frequently raid nests of ground-nesting birds and sea turtle nests near coastal areas.
3. Burrowing Damage to Ecosystems Their large burrow systems destabilize soil, damage tree roots, and collapse shorelines. This affects burrowing owls, gopher tortoises, and other native animals that rely on stable ground for dens and nesting.
4. Disease Transmission Iguanas can carry salmonella and other pathogens that may spread to native wildlife and even domestic pets.
5. Displacement of Native Reptiles Native species like the Florida scrub lizard and reef gecko are being pushed out of their natural habitats as iguanas dominate sunny basking spots and food resources.
Property and Landscape Damage Caused by Iguanas
Beyond ecological harm, iguanas cause expensive damage to homes and landscapes:
- Digging burrows under pool decks, foundations, and seawalls
- Eating expensive ornamental plants and fruit trees
- Climbing on roofs and leaving droppings on patios and pool cages
- Weakening structures with constant burrowing
A single large male iguana can cause thousands of dollars in landscape and structural damage in one season.
Why Professional Removal Is Crucial
Simply chasing iguanas away or using homemade traps provides only temporary relief. Professional removal is essential because:
- Humane & Legal Compliance — SoFlo Iguana Pros operates under a valid FWC Commercial Nuisance Wildlife Permit and follows all regulations.
- Nest & Egg Removal — We locate and safely remove eggs before they hatch, preventing population explosions.
- Long-Term Exclusion — We install professional anti-climb barriers, anti-hole mesh, and other exclusion methods to keep iguanas from returning.
- Targeted Removal — We focus on the specific animals causing problems rather than non-selective methods that can harm native species.
DIY methods often fail and can be illegal or inhumane if not done correctly.
Our Proven Iguana Control Process
- Free On-Site Assessment — We thoroughly inspect your property to identify iguana activity, burrows, and entry points.
- Humane Removal — Using ethical and FWC-approved methods.
- Nest & Egg Destruction — Critical for stopping future generations.
- Exclusion & Prevention — Installing physical barriers tailored to your property.
- Follow-up Monitoring — Ensuring the solution remains effective.
The Importance of Acting Now
Every breeding season, the iguana population grows exponentially. The longer you wait, the more difficult and expensive control becomes. Early professional intervention protects both native wildlife and your property investment.
Why South Florida Residents Choose SoFlo Iguana Pros
- Valid FWC Nuisance Wildlife Permit
- 10+ years of specialized experience with green iguanas in South Florida
- Humane, effective, and environmentally responsible methods
- Long-term exclusion solutions with warranties
- Excellent 4.8+ star reviews on Yelp and Facebook
Frequently Asked Questions
Are green iguanas protected in Florida? No. They are considered an invasive species. FWC allows their removal on private property.
Do iguanas really harm native turtles and birds? Yes. They compete for food and habitat and will eat eggs and small animals.
Can I just shoot or poison them? No. Poison is illegal and dangerous. Shooting has strict regulations and is not recommended in residential areas.
How fast can iguanas multiply? A single female can lay up to 70 eggs per year. Without control, populations explode quickly.
Do you offer prevention after removal? Yes. We provide professional exclusion services including buried mesh, anti-climb panels, and gate modifications.
Protect Native Species and Your Property
Green iguanas are not just a nuisance — they are a genuine threat to South Florida’s delicate ecological balance and to the enjoyment of your own backyard.
Don’t wait until the problem gets worse. Professional removal and exclusion is the most responsible and effective solution.
Call (561) 735-1975 or email sofloiguanapros@gmail.com today to schedule your free on-site wildlife assessment.
Visit SoFloIguana.com or follow us on Instagram and Facebook for real results and helpful tips.
Let’s protect Florida’s native species, one property at a time.
