Story perspectives

Florida Residents Capture 5,195 Cold-Stunned Iguanas

2/8/2026

Summary

Story summary

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) reported 5,195 invasive green iguanas were collected after Florida's cold snap on February 1–2.
The iguanas were primarily removed from Sunrise, Tequesta, Marathon, and Fort Myers.
Residents could capture cold-stunned iguanas without a permit under Executive Order No. 26-03.
Some residents warmed iguanas at home, contrary to FWC recommendations.
Experts noted some iguanas can recover, but about 50% of those collected were dead.

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Story summary

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) reported 5,195 invasive green iguanas were collected after Florida's cold snap on February 1–2.
The iguanas were primarily removed from Sunrise, Tequesta, Marathon, and Fort Myers.
Residents could capture cold-stunned iguanas without a permit under Executive Order No. 26-03.
Some residents warmed iguanas at home, contrary to FWC recommendations.
Experts noted some iguanas can recover, but about 50% of those collected were dead.