The consequences can be disastrous when a species finds itself in a new environment without natural predators.
Meet the green iguana, originally from Central and South America, as a prime example. Introduced to South Florida through the exotic pet trade in the 1960s, these creatures have multiplied exponentially. Many of these iguanas were originally bought as pets. However, due to their demanding space requirements and the need for long-term care, they were often released into the wild.
Male iguanas can reach up to 20 pounds and are nearly six feet in length. Females are smaller and capable of reproducing at just two years old. In the wild, their lifespan is approximately 10 years but they can live up to 20 years in captivity. Green iguanas can live in various urban or suburban areas of South Florida. They can be found in trees, on the ground, or in bushes and other vegetation. As herbivores, they eat tree and shrub leaves, plants, vegetables, and fruit.
The green iguana has been able to thrive and reproduce in Florida’s subtropical climate. They have damaged the landscape, and gardens, caused property damage, and left their droppings in yards and pools. Effective control measures are necessary including prevention techniques.
Understanding the Green Iguana Threat
These creatures have become a huge problem in South Florida. They eat and trample over vegetation, driving some native plant species towards extinction. They dig extensive burrows to lay their eggs including interconnected underground tunnels that can stretch 80 feet. This can lead to soil erosion, further compromising the delicate ecosystem. Breeding annually, females can lay 60 or more eggs.
The green iguanas deplete the vegetation and habitat of the native herbivores, competing with them for the same food resources. Over time, this disrupts the native species' feeding patterns and reproductive behaviour. This can result in a massive decline of the native species. It also threatens the current biodiversity and balance of the natural ecosystem.
Risks of Not Taking Action
Failing to address the green iguana population can have dire consequences for Florida. To safeguard against this, proactively implementing prevention techniques alongside removal methods is imperative.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission recognized the negative impact on the environment and declared them a prohibited species. Only those acquired before April 29, 2021, are allowed for personal possession.
Health and Safety Concerns
The presence of green iguanas can be dangerous to humans, especially to vulnerable groups like children, seniors, and pets. Their droppings may contain harmful bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli. These can cause severe gastrointestinal issues in humans and pets. Commonly found around backyard swimming pools, they’re also a threat to water quality.
Beyond the risk of illness, there’s also the potential for physical safety hazards. Iguana droppings are a slip-and-fall hazard, especially on hard surfaces such as concrete or decks. Another serious hazard is caused by their extensive ground burrows and tunnelling. This could mean a twisted ankle (or worse) for an unsuspecting senior strolling around their garden.
Environmental Impact
The green iguana's impact on local ecosystems is far-reaching. Disrupting food chains and competing for resources with native species, contribute to a significant imbalance. Native plant species, already under pressure, face further challenges in their struggle for survival.
Effective Control and Prevention
Controlling the green iguana population demands a multi-faceted approach. This includes humane removal techniques, professional pest control services, and strategic prevention and deterrent measures.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's decision to add green iguanas to the prohibited species list shows how important it is to take action to control them.
Why Choose Professional Iguana Control Services
The green iguana is not a protected species in Florida, and therefore requires iguana control to protect the environment. While it is possible for property owners to attempt DIY iguana removal, it is not without significant challenges. These creatures are surprisingly agile and fast, making them difficult to catch. They can run or climb quickly and are great swimmers. Additionally, handling them without specialized equipment can be hazardous to your health.
Opting for professional iguana removal not only addresses the immediate problem but also provides preventive maintenance.
Another benefit to hiring professional iguana removal is that business owners may be able to claim pest control expenses on their tax returns. Check with your tax professional if this is possible for your business.
Also, if you’re a rental property owner, it's important to be aware that you may have specific obligations to tenants regarding health and safety standards. These obligations could encompass various aspects of these standards, including pest control measures to ensure a safe and habitable environment. To navigate these responsibilities effectively and mitigate potential legal risks, check with a qualified legal professional.
Act Now to Control the Iguana Problem
Understanding and addressing the green iguana threat is not only a matter of safeguarding your property but also a vital step in preserving Florida's delicate ecosystem. These creatures, having found a thriving environment in the state's subtropical climate, pose a significant challenge to native wildlife species and vegetation. Failing to act can lead to irreversible damage.
The designation of green iguanas as a prohibited species in Florida reinforces the urgency of action. Fortunately, effective control and prevention strategies, including professional pest control services, are available.
You don’t need to take on this challenge by yourself. Engage the experts and hire professional pest control services to protect your property, your community, and the rich biodiversity that makes Florida a true treasure.