When Are Iguanas Most Active in Florida? A Seasonal Guide

Florida's green iguanas don't hibernate, but their activity levels vary dramatically with the seasons. As cold-blooded reptiles, their behavior is directly tied to temperature—and understanding this cycle is key to protecting your property year-round. Whether you're in Miami-Dade, Broward, or Palm Beach County, these patterns apply across South Florida.

The Breeding Cycle: Why Spring is Critical

Understanding the iguana breeding cycle explains why spring is the most important season for property protection. In South Florida, the cycle follows a predictable pattern:

1. Late January - February: Mating season begins. Males display bright orange coloring and become highly territorial. You may notice increased aggression and more visible displays on seawalls and fences.
2. March - April: Females seek nesting sites. This is when the most significant burrow damage occurs. Females dig tunnels 3-6 feet deep, often under foundations, seawalls, and pool decks. Check our guide on identifying iguana damage to spot warning signs early.
3. April - May: Egg laying. Each female can deposit 20-70 eggs per clutch. Nests are typically located in sunny areas with loose soil.
4. May - June: Eggs hatch after approximately 90 days. Hatchlings are 6-9 inches long and immediately begin foraging independently.

Daily Activity Patterns

Beyond seasonal patterns, iguanas follow predictable daily routines that can help you plan inspections and treatments:

Morning (6 AM - 10 AM)

• Basking period: Iguanas emerge to warm up on rocks, docks, seawalls, and south-facing surfaces
• Most visible and accessible time of day
• Ideal for visual inspections and surveys
• Professional removal services often schedule morning visits

Midday (10 AM - 4 PM)

• Peak feeding: Active foraging in gardens and landscaped areas
• During extreme heat (95°F+), may retreat to shade or water
• Swimming activity increases in pools, canals, and lakes

Evening (4 PM - Sunset)

• Secondary basking: Final sun exposure before nightfall
• Return to roosting sites in trees or structures
• Reduced activity as temperatures drop

Night

• Dormancy: Iguanas sleep in trees, on branches, or in burrows
• Body temperature drops significantly
• Not active unless disturbed

Weather Events and Iguana Behavior

Florida's unpredictable weather creates unique situations for iguana activity:

Cold Fronts

When temperatures drop below 50°F, iguanas become sluggish. Below 40°F, they enter a torpor state and may fall from trees—the famous "falling iguanas" phenomenon. Despite appearances, they're rarely dead and will recover when temperatures rise. These events can actually increase property damage as immobilized iguanas are sometimes carried into pools, HVAC equipment, or vehicles by concerned residents.

Hurricanes and Heavy Rain

Major storms flood iguana burrows, forcing them to seek higher ground and new shelter. Post-hurricane periods often see increased iguana visibility as they search for new territory. This is when emergency removal services see the highest call volumes.

Drought Conditions

Extended dry periods concentrate iguanas around water sources—pools, irrigation systems, and decorative ponds. Property damage increases as iguanas congregate in irrigated landscapes.

Regional Variations in Florida

Iguana activity timing varies slightly by location:

• Southeast Florida ( Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach): Year-round activity with minimal winter slowdown. Highest population density and earliest breeding season start.
• Southwest Florida ( Lee, Collier): Similar to southeast but slightly lower density. Marco Island and Naples see significant waterfront populations.
• Florida Keys ( Monroe County): Most consistent year-round activity due to stable tropical temperatures. Some of Florida's largest individual iguanas.
• Central Florida: Emerging populations with more pronounced seasonal variation. Winter cold snaps significantly reduce activity.

Check our Florida Iguana Risk Map to see activity levels and population density in your specific area.

Planning Your Prevention Strategy

Based on seasonal patterns, here's an annual approach to iguana management:

Understanding Florida's iguana regulations is essential before taking any action. While iguanas are not protected, removal methods must be humane and legal.