Over 5,000 cold-stunned green iguanas removed in two days under Florida permit exemption
Tallahassee, Florida (High Desert News Online) – Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission announced over 5,000 cold-stunned green iguanas were removed Feb. 1–2, 2026, under a two-day Executive Order allowing permit-free collection after a record cold snap that temporarily immobilized the invasive reptiles.
Key takeaways
- 5,195 iguanas were collected at four drop-off sites during Feb. 1–2, 2026 (FWC news release).
- Executive Order 26-03 temporarily allowed permit-free capture and transport of visibly cold-stunned iguanas for two days (Executive Order 26-03).
- Most animals were transferred to permitted holders or humanely euthanized when transfer was not possible (Popular Science).
Main story
Removal overview
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) reported that 5,195 cold-stunned green iguanas were collected and brought to four designated drop-off offices during the two-day exemption on Feb. 1–2, 2026 (FWC news release).
Collection totals by site were: Sunrise — 3,882; Tequesta — 1,075; Marathon (Florida Keys) — 215; Fort Myers — 23 (FWC news release).
How the two-day exemption worked
The statewide Executive Order 26-03 temporarily changed rules that normally prohibit possession of green iguanas without authorization. For two days only, people could lawfully capture live, visibly cold-stunned iguanas and bring them to FWC drop-off centers without a permit (Executive Order 26-03).
The exemption was explicitly limited to animals that were visibly cold-stunned — slowed or immobilized by sudden low temperatures. Drop-off locations were staffed for intake and immediate care, intake totals were tallied, and the order expired after Feb. 2, ending public drop-offs (FWC news release).
A rapid, statewide response
FWC officials said the short window and large number of animals required fast coordination across divisions, offices and partner groups. The agency opened four primary drop-off points rather than the five initially listed so staff resources could be concentrated for quicker intake and processing (FWC news release).
“This result was possible because of coordinated agency staff, partners and public participants,” FWC Executive Director Roger Young said at a Feb. 4 meeting (FWC meeting summary).
Local video and news coverage documented residents collecting animals from yards and canals and bringing them by the dozen; national outlets also covered the removals and the cold snap that made capture possible (video of collection and drop-offs; Fox News coverage).
What happened to the iguanas
FWC stated many iguanas were transferred to permitted holders for out-of-state sale or authorized possession. Permitted holders often use the animals for education, captive care or commercial purposes where allowed. Animals that could not be transferred were humanely euthanized by trained personnel to prevent prolonged suffering (Popular Science).
Why green iguanas are a problem in Florida
Green iguanas are a prohibited, nonnative species in Florida because they damage infrastructure and ecosystems. They dig burrows in canal banks and embankments, undermining structures and increasing erosion, eat ornamental plants and crops, and can spread via waterways and human activity. For these reasons, FWC and partner agencies work to limit their population and movement (FWC nonnative species guidance).
The state allows year-round humane removal from private property by landowners or with landowner permission; FWC recommends professional wildlife control for difficult situations and posts deterrence guidance online (MyFWC nonnatives).
Legal and ethical notes
Although the temporary exemption permitted capture without a permit for the two-day window, iguanas remain a prohibited species and possession is restricted. Anti-cruelty laws still apply; FWC emphasized humane treatment and that trained staff handled euthanasia when necessary. After the window closed, normal prohibitions returned (Executive Order 26-03; FWC news release).
Cold-stun context and timing
South Florida experienced record-setting cold temperatures that caused widespread cold-stun events among reptiles. Cold stuns occur when low air temperatures rapidly lower reptiles’ body temperature, slowing movement or causing temporary paralysis — a brief window that allowed managers to remove large numbers of nonnative iguanas that would otherwise evade capture (FWC; Fox News).
Media and public participation
FWC credited public participation for part of the success. Residents and visitors collected iguanas from properties and brought them to drop-off sites, helping staff amass thousands in a short span. Media coverage showed community members assisting agency staff, which FWC said reduced ecological damage and supported follow-up actions (FWC news release; collection video).
Implications for The High Desert, California
Economic impact
The Florida event illustrates how invasive species can quickly impose costs on property owners and public agencies. Although green iguanas are unlikely to establish in the High Desert due to drier, cooler winters, the episode highlights risks to irrigation, drainage structures, landscaping and fencing, and the importance of funding local pest-control and animal-management programs.
Political consequences
A practical, conservative response emphasizes property rights, local control and fiscal responsibility. County and city leaders in the High Desert can consider targeted, short-term authority to address sudden wildlife risks paired with clear rules and humane standards. Coordination among county public works, animal control and state wildlife agencies helps avoid legal gaps.
Social effects
FWC’s reliance on residents shows public participation can be effective if guided by clear rules. In the High Desert, education campaigns can mobilize homeowners to spot and report invasive species early, reducing later costs. Emphasizing responsible action and humane treatment will resonate with moderate conservative readers who value stewardship of property and community order.
Cultural relevance
The event underscores respect for private land and shared public goods. High Desert residents who care for yards, wells and local canals should be reassured that coordinated city and county responses can work with citizens to manage threats. Outreach framed as protecting property values and rural lifestyle is likely to gain broad support.
Practical applications for residents
- Know local rules. Check county animal control and state wildlife guidance before attempting capture — laws differ from Florida’s exemption.
- Report sightings promptly. Early reporting helps agencies respond before a small problem grows.
- Strengthen property defenses. Repair irrigation banks, fencing and remove food sources to limit burrowing or feeding invaders.
- Consider professionals. Licensed wildlife control can ensure legal compliance and humane treatment.
- Learn from FWC resources. The FWC’s online guides on deterrence and nonnative species provide practical steps (FWC deterrence tips).
For local officials and residents of the High Desert, the Florida episode is a reminder that invasive species management requires planning, clear legal authority, rapid response options and public cooperation.
Sources and further reading
- Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission — green iguanas removed
- Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission — Executive Order 26-03
- Fox News coverage of the removals
- Popular Science on euthanasia and handling
- FWC information on nonnative species and landowner tips
- Video of collection and drop-offs
