Florida Iguanas Fall From Trees During Record Cold Snap

Cold Weather Impacts on Iguanas

• ❄️ Extreme cold temperatures in Florida have caused iguanas to become paralyzed and fall from trees.
• 🌡️ Iguanas are cold-blooded animals and their bodies stiffen when temperatures drop below 40 degrees Fahrenheit, making them unable to hold on.
• 🥶 The recent cold snap was the coldest weather Florida has experienced since 2010, with some areas seeing their coldest morning since 1989.

Invasive Species and Wildlife Commission Response

• 🦎 The cold has left many iguanas stunned and vulnerable on the ground.
• ⚠️ Florida's Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has issued an emergency order encouraging residents to round up these invasive animals.
• 📍 Residents are asked to bring the collected iguanas to one of five designated locations for humane euthanasia.

Iguana Behavior and Recovery

• 🌳 At night, iguanas seek refuge in trees, making them susceptible to the cold.
• ☀️ After a sluggish period, iguanas can recover once they are exposed to the sun's warmth.