The $1.8 Million Wake-Up Call
In 2020, West Palm Beach faced a $1.8 million emergency repair bill for a seawall damaged by iguana burrowing. This wasn't a freak accident—it's a preview of infrastructure damage happening across Florida.
Types of Iguana Damage
Iguanas cause damage in multiple ways. Understanding the types helps you identify problems early and take action.
Seawalls & Foundations
Burrowing undermines structural integrity, causing cracks, shifting, and potential collapse.
Landscaping & Gardens
Herbivorous iguanas consume ornamental plants, flowers, vegetables, and fruit trees.
Pool & Deck Areas
Feces contamination, equipment damage, and undermining of deck structures.
Ecological Impact
Threatening native species including the Miami blue butterfly and burrowing owls.
Damage Cost Reference
What Florida property owners actually pay to repair iguana damage.
Minor Damage
Garden damage, small repairs, initial burrow filling
Moderate Damage
Seawall repairs, foundation work, extensive landscaping
Severe Damage
Major infrastructure failure, complete seawall replacement
Beyond Property: Protecting Native Species
Iguanas don't just damage property—they threaten Florida's most vulnerable wildlife including the Miami blue butterfly, burrowing owls, and gopher tortoises. Professional removal is conservation in action.
Learn About Environmental ImpactPrevention Strategies
The best way to avoid costly repairs is to prevent damage before it happens.
What Works
- ✓Strategic landscaping with iguana-resistant plants
- ✓Physical barriers (proper fencing, hardware cloth)
- ✓Tree trimming to remove access routes
- ✓Professional ongoing management
- ✓Early burrow detection and filling
What Doesn't Work
- ✗Ultrasonic devices (no scientific evidence)
- ✗Mothballs or chemical deterrents
- ✗Predator urine sprays
- ✗One-time removal without follow-up
- ✗Ignoring the problem and hoping they leave
When to Call Professionals
Some situations require expert intervention. Don't wait until damage becomes catastrophic.
- • 5+ iguanas seen regularly
- • Garden/landscape damage
- • First burrow discovery
- • Pool area issues
- • Multiple burrows on property
- • Iguanas near pool/dock/foundation
- • DIY attempts haven't worked
- • Damage is escalating
- • Seawall cracking or shifting
- • Foundation concerns
- • Iguana inside home/screened area
- • Structural damage visible