When temperatures drop in Florida, so do the iguanas.
Meteorologists predict a cold wave in Florida and other parts of the Southeast through next week, bringing with it a potential increase in the number of falling iguanas.
The cold-blooded creatures usually live in treetops in the Sunshine State, but tend to faint when temperatures drop.
As a result, the hibernating lizards lose their grip on branches or roofs and fall to the ground or onto an unfortunate passerby.
Considering that iguanas can grow up to five feet long and weigh as much as 50 pounds, it’s no wonder experts warn about the potential risk of injury from raining reptiles.
Joe Wasilewski, a biologist and iguana expert, told Patch in 2022 that if the temperature is below 40 degrees, “it’s going to happen. If it’s in the 50s, they’re slow. If it’s in the 40s, they’re on the verge of falling. And if it’s in the 30s, they’re down.
Wasilewski said falling iguana season is often a shock to snowbirds and transplants.
“When it gets this cold, it’s funny for those who aren’t from here to see the news people talking about iguanas falling out of trees, but it can and will happen,” he said.
Michael Ronquillo, a professional iguana remover, suggests that people minimize the chance of falling iguanas pruning trees from roofs, wrapping trees with material that the creatures cannot control or installing fake owls as a deterrent.
We need your support
Support JS
Already contributed? Log in to hide these messages.
If you do come across an unconscious iguana, Ronquillo recommends calling a professional rather than removing the animal yourself.
“As soon as it warms up, things will start moving normally again,” he says told NBC Miami.
“If they are cornered, they will defend themselves. They will try to tail whip you. They can tell their stories at a speed of 30 miles per hour,” he added. “They have very sharp teeth and very sharp nails, so if you are not experienced, you should not try to handle them.”