Florida residents have been allowed to surrender frozen iguanas as part of a wildlife management effort since they are considered an invasive species.
In Florida, the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has authorized citizens to turn in frozen iguanas, as these reptiles are identified as an invasive species detrimental to local ecosystems. Due to their negative impact on both wildlife and plant life, alongside their potential to spread infectious bacteria to humans, these animals are being targeted for removal. Many of the iguanas collected have been humanely euthanized by trained personnel, while others are sent to authorized operators for sale outside the state.
On January 30, the FWC issued Executive Order 26-03, which enables residents to capture and remove stunned iguanas without needing a permit. This step was taken to help manage the iguana population during a period when the temperature in Florida caused many to become immobilized by the cold. The emergency order has resulted in the removal of over 5,000 iguanas, reflecting the aggressive approach the state is taking to curb the invasive species affecting the region’s biodiversity.
The implications of this initiative highlight the ongoing struggle between local wildlife management and invasive species control. By allowing residents to participate in the capture and removal of iguanas, Florida aims to engage the public in conservation efforts while also addressing the ecological threats posed by these reptiles. As Florida’s climate changes and such weather events become more frequent, this issue will remain pertinent in discussions regarding environmental preservation and wildlife management strategies in the state.
