Non-native, invasive iguanas and anoles are munching their way through yards and gardens in St. Lucie County and the rest of the Treasure Coast.
Iguanas and anoles have been imported as pets for years. Many have either escaped captivity or been released into the Florida environment. It is, of course, illegal to release these non-native species into the Florida environment. St. Lucie County's subtropical climate enables these plant-eating reptiles to thrive. We currently have breeding populations of several non-native iguanas and anoles including the curly tailed lizard, common green iguana, basilisk and the knight anole.
These non-native iguanas and anoles belong to a family of reptiles called Iguanidae. Approximately 13 species of non-native Iguanidae can be found in Florida. Adult iguanas are herbivores feeding on foliage, flowers and fruit. They will occasionally eat native insects, lizards, nestling birds and eggs.
Iguanas are often considered to be a nuisance for several reasons. Damage caused by iguanas includes eating valuable landscape plants and eating dooryard fruit like mangos, tomatoes, and bananas. One consolation: iguanas do not eat citrus. Burrows that they dig undermine sidewalks, seawalls, and foundations.
So what can be done to manage invasive iguanas in St. Lucie County?
- Do not feed iguanas in your yard. This will only attract more iguanas.
- Exclusion. Protect valuable plants with cages or screen enclosures. Repellents are not available.
- Habitat modification. Simply do not plant vegetation that can serve as a food source for iguanas. Hibiscus, roses, squash and other plants can be attractive to iguanas. Iguana-resistant plants include citrus, milkweeds, oleanders and pentas.
- Capture and removal. Iguanas can be captured and removed from private property at any time without special permits. They are considered exotic unprotected wildlife. They may be caught by hand, noose pole, net, or traps. Only live traps and snares are legal in the State of Florida. Check with local authorities for any local ordinances that may limit control options.
- Lethal options are available provided humane methods are used.
- Eating. Iguana meat and the eggs are eaten and considered a delicacy throughout their native range.
For additional information about iguanas, please contact the St. Lucie County Extension at (772) 462-1660.
###