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Why iguanas fall from trees in Florida's winter

When winter brings cooler temperatures to Florida, residents may be surprised by the phenomenon of falling iguanas

As the winter chill begins to settle over Florida, residents look forward to cooler temperatures and the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors. But while many people in colder climates might be bracing for snowfall, Floridians experience a much stranger phenomenon: falling iguanas. This odd occurrence, which has caught the attention of both locals and media worldwide, occurs when cold temperatures cause iguanas, the state’s famous invasive species, to become immobile and fall from trees. While it may sound bizarre, this surprising event serves as a reminder of the unique challenges Floridians face when it comes to the local wildlife.

Although the iguanas themselves are not harmed in most cases, their sudden falls can create hazards for people, cars, and property. Whether splashing into swimming pools, creating a mess around homes, or even causing injury, these falling reptiles have become a notable issue. As residents enjoy the seasonal cool-down, it's crucial to understand why it happens and what precautions to take.

Why do iguanas fall from trees?

Iguanas, like all reptiles, are cold-blooded, meaning their body temperature depends on the environment around them. During Florida’s cooler winter months, temperatures can dip below 45°F, making it difficult for these creatures to regulate their body temperature. When this happens, they become sluggish and lose their ability to hold onto tree branches. This is when they often fall from their perches, sometimes landing on unsuspecting pedestrians or cars below.

Imagine the impact of a six-foot-long iguana, weighing up to 25 pounds, suddenly crashing down from a palm tree—such an event could lead to both bodily injury and property damage. Fortunately, while this phenomenon is alarming, it doesn't usually pose a direct threat to the iguana’s health. If the temperatures rise again, they regain their mobility. However, if they fall onto hard surfaces, there is a risk of injury. In contrast, falls onto softer areas like grass or bushes can help cushion their landing, giving them a better chance at survival.

A man in a green vest holds an iguana and trees with guards so iguanas cannot climb them.

Do’s & don’ts when dealing with falling iguanas


If you find yourself dealing with a fallen iguana, it’s important to remain cautious and act wisely. Many people may be tempted to rescue these stunned reptiles by placing them in their cars or homes to warm up, but this is not advisable. Once the iguana warms up, it will regain its strength and could become active, leading to chaos inside your car or home. Imagine a startled iguana running around, potentially causing a dangerous situation—it's something to avoid at all costs.

If an iguana happens to fall into your swimming pool, use a pool net to remove it before it drowns and contaminates the water. It’s always best to leave the iguana alone to allow it to regain mobility naturally. However, if you see one that appears to be injured, it’s best to contact a professional for assistance. Iguanas have sharp claws and teeth that could cause injury if provoked.

Although iguanas are considered a problem, they are still protected under Florida’s anti-cruelty laws, meaning they cannot be harmed without following proper guidelines. The Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) allows for humane euthanasia of iguanas, but removal should be handled by trained professionals to avoid unnecessary harm.

To minimize the risk of falling iguanas and property damage, there are several steps homeowners and property managers can take. Experts from companies like Humane Iguana Control suggest trimming back tree branches that hang too low and using smooth, clear wraps around trunks to make climbing more difficult for iguanas. These wraps discourage iguanas from scaling trees and provide a barrier that can help prevent falls.

If you ever find yourself in need of iguana removal services, it's best to call in the professionals. Iguanas can be aggressive when threatened, and their sharp claws and tails make handling them dangerous without proper training.

For more tips on dealing with iguanas and other local wildlife, subscribe to the Calle Ocho News newsletter. Stay informed on the latest news about everything from wildlife and current events to things to do in Miami. Small businesses can also benefit from reaching out for advertising services to connect with Miami's vibrant community.

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