More than 5,000 cold-stunned invasive green iguanas collected in two days under FWC permit exemption
South Florida experienced a rare early-February 2026 cold snap that cold-stunned over 5,000 invasive green iguanas. The FWC issued a two-day permit exemption, allowing residents to collect immobile reptiles to reduce impacts on the local ecosystem.
Key takeaways
- 5,195 iguanas collected during a two-day exemption (Feb. 1–2) under FWC press release.
- Drop-off distribution: Sunrise 3,882; Tequesta 1,075; Marathon 215; Fort Myers 23 — coordinated by residents, partners and FWC divisions (FWC press release; Fox News coverage).
- Final dispositions: Transfers to permitted holders for out-of-state sale where allowed; otherwise humanely euthanized (FWC press release; Popular Science).
Cold snap, executive order and the exemption
A rare and intense cold front swept parts of South Florida at the end of January into early February 2026. Green iguanas — cold-blooded, nonnative reptiles — became immobile in the cold, a condition known as cold-stunning, often causing them to fall from trees.
Anticipating the window of immobility, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission issued Executive Order 26-03 to temporarily waive permit requirements so residents could remove live, cold-stunned iguanas without risking regulatory violations. The exemption applied only on Feb. 1–2 and designated four FWC offices as drop-off points to enable rapid, legal collection and processing (FWC press release).
Collection, processing and final disposition
FWC reported a total of 5,195 animals collected across four sites: Sunrise (3,882), Tequesta (1,075), Marathon (215), and Fort Myers (23). The Sunrise office recorded the largest intake, reflecting South Florida’s dense iguana population and proximity to Fort Lauderdale.
After collection, staff coordinated transfers to permitted holders where interstate transport and sale were legal. Where transfers were not possible, trained personnel humanely euthanized untransferred iguanas to prevent suffering and to reduce invasive populations (FWC press release; Popular Science).
Media covered the drop-off activity and inventory operations during the two-day window (Fox News coverage; video footage).
FWC leadership and partner role
“The removal of over 5,000 of these nonnative lizards in such a short time span was only possible thanks to the coordinated efforts of many staff members in multiple FWC divisions and offices, our partners, and… the many residents that took the time to collect and turn in cold-stunned iguanas from their properties,” said FWC Executive Director Roger Young (FWC press release).
FWC highlighted that public participation and preexisting partnerships with permitted holders and wildlife management groups made the rapid response feasible. The agency credited coordination across divisions and with community volunteers for the large removal totals.
Why Florida treats iguanas as invasive
Green iguanas are listed as a prohibited invasive species in Florida because they damage ecosystems and property. Impacts include burrowing that undermines seawalls and infrastructure, droppings on docks and pools, and competition with native wildlife for habitat. FWC notes more than 600 nonnative species have been reported in the state, with 139 established, many entering via the live animal trade (FWC press release).
Public safety and handling guidance
FWC advised care when handling cold-stunned iguanas. Recovering reptiles can become defensive — whipping tails, sharp teeth and claws — so the agency warned the public against bringing animals indoors to warm them and recommended safe handling techniques or professional assistance on private property. Anti-cruelty laws remain applicable even during humane control actions (FWC press release).
Media coverage and community response
News outlets documented the event with video and reporting, noting the unusual freeze that created the short collection window. Residents who turned in iguanas said they viewed the exemption as an opportunity to protect yards and property from future damage. Coverage sources include video footage, Fox News coverage, and regional reports such as Fox 5 Atlanta.
Broader context: invasive species management in Florida
The iguana removal occurred within a broader FWC priority on invasive species management. Responses typically combine public outreach, targeted removals, regulatory tools, and partnerships with permitted holders to limit ecological harm and protect infrastructure. The Florida episode demonstrates how short-term, targeted authorities can enable rapid, large-scale removal when opportunities arise (FWC press release).
Implications for Huntington Beach, California
Economic impact
Huntington Beach property owners and businesses face similar potential costs from nonnative species: damaged landscaping, compromised seawalls, and cleanup for parks and marinas. Although green iguanas are not established in Huntington Beach, the Florida example underscores the value of prevention budgets and rapid-response planning to limit potential fiscal exposure.
Political consequences
The FWC’s short, targeted exemption may appeal to conservative audiences that prioritize property rights and limited government. Local leaders in Huntington Beach might consider narrow emergency authorizations enabling residents or contractors to act quickly against sudden wildlife threats without creating permanent regulations.
Social effects
Community volunteers helped reduce future property damage in Florida. The episode reinforces norms of personal responsibility and neighborhood cooperation — themes that resonate with homeowners and local groups in Huntington Beach. Outreach and neighborhood stewardship can aid early detection and response.
Cultural relevance
Huntington Beach’s outdoor culture values beaches, trails and backyard spaces. Messaging that stresses safe, lawful homeowner actions — rather than broad bans — is likely to resonate with residents who prefer local, community-based solutions for invasive risks.
Practical applications for residents and officials
- Review local ordinances and emergency wildlife response plans to allow rapid action with clear legal guidance.
- Educate homeowners on safe handling and reporting; avoid warming animals indoors and consider professionals for removals (FWC guidance).
- Strengthen partnerships with state/regional wildlife agencies and permitted holders so transfers or humane dispositions comply with law.
- Encourage stewardship programs that empower residents to report sightings early to prevent establishment.
Sources and further reading
- Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission press release, “Green iguanas removed during two-day FWC exemption,” Feb. 4, 2026
- Fox News coverage: “Over 5,000 cold-stunned iguanas removed in two days amid state’s record freeze”
- Fox 5 Atlanta report: “Florida freeze: More than 5,000 cold-stunned iguanas collected”
- Video coverage of collections
- Popular Science explanation of euthanasia practices used when necessary
Reporting from Times Media Service in West Palm Beach; FWC release and media coverage cited above.
