Falling Iguanas in Florida
What you need to know about cold-stunned iguanas in Florida
🦎Why Do Iguanas Fall From Trees?
Iguanas are ectothermic reptiles (cold-blooded), which means they depend on external heat sources to regulate their body temperature. As temperatures drop, their muscle function and neurological activity decrease sharply.
Temperature Thresholds:
Reduced Mobility
Iguanas become sluggish, lose coordination, and show lethargy
Early Cold-Stunning
Severe slowing - many iguanas cannot cling to branches effectively
Full Cold-Stunning
Iguanas become immobilized and fall from trees - the "falling iguana" phenomenon
At around 40°F, neurological and muscular impairment prevents iguanas from supporting their body weight. They appear dead, but most will recover once warmed back up - though prolonged exposure can be fatal.
Source: Based on research from University of Florida IFAS Extension and Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC)
⚠️What Should You Do?
⚠️ Important Safety Warning
DO NOT TOUCH OR HANDLE fallen iguanas, even if they appear unconscious. As temperatures warm up, they can revive suddenly and may bite or scratch defensively. Iguanas have sharp claws and powerful jaws.
Recommended Actions:
- ✓Keep pets and children away from fallen iguanas
- ✓Observe from a safe distance and allow them to warm up naturally
- ✓If the iguana is in a dangerous location (road, pool, etc.), contact a professional
- ✓Take photos or videos from a safe distance to document the event
☀️What Happens When It Warms Up?
As the sun rises and temperatures increase, the iguanas will gradually warm up and regain their mobility. This process typically takes a few hours, depending on how cold they became.
Once warmed, most iguanas will recover completely and return to their normal activities, climbing back into trees or moving to sunny spots to continue thermoregulating.
📞When to Call a Professional
📚Interesting Facts
- •Green iguanas are not native to Florida - they are an invasive species from Central and South America
- •Falling iguana events are most common in South Florida during rare cold snaps
- •The National Weather Service has issued official "falling iguana" warnings during extreme cold events
- •Iguanas can grow up to 5-7 feet long and weigh 15-20 pounds, making a falling iguana potentially dangerous