Frozen Iguanas

Mindy D · ‎05-23-2010

I always get such a kick out of this phenomena. When it gets into the 40s or below here in S. Florida, iguanas start falling out of the trees. They look stiff as a board and they usually land belly up. They are usually alive but look like they are dead. As the heat of the day wears on their metabolism heats up and they start moving again. Then they scamper off as if nothing has happened. If a cold front is protracted for days they can die, but things often warm up before this. it was 37° last here night so I’m expecting to hear some stories. Stay warm and beware of falling iguanas.

ValuSkr · ‎03-15-2014

Aren't they an invasive species in South Florida? If so, this might be a good time for control measures.

Marp · ‎03-09-2010

Not only beware of falling iguanas don't try to handle them. If you do and it happens to be coming out of its state of suspended animation they can be quite aggressive and their teeth are nothing to take lightly.

What is good for the goose today will also be good for the gander tomorrow.

Mindy D · ‎05-23-2010

@ValuSkr wrote:
Aren't they an invasive species in South Florida? If so, this might be a good time for control measures.

Yes, they are invasive. I’m not sure what control measures are currently being utilized. I couldn’t hurt one myself, I know they aren’t good for the ecosystem but I’m fond of them.

BlueFinch · ‎08-31-2019

That's fascinating, @Mindy D . Falling Igunas? That this could occur would have never crossed my mind. I have found a few Anoles, in this situation, though. I bring them in until weather is more suitable.

I had a neighbor with a huge male Iguana, named Izzy. i love all critters, large and small, but Izzy was a, NO, for me. He was very aggressive.

He had an elaborate, walk in size enclosure. One day, the door wasn't secured. Izzy decided to explore. A neighborhood APB was sent out, fearing a child, or someone's pet would fall victim to Izzy's crankiness. There were no responses.

Then, six months later, a neighbor a couple of streets over came knocking. "Are you the one with the missing Iguana? If so, you need to come get him out of my garden." After an extended vacay, Izzy wasn't happy to return home. These guys are obviously very resourceful.

phoenixbrd · ‎03-27-2010

I would love to see this sight! Raining iguanas! I love all creatures....and, like you, would not welcome animal control. This is their means of survival, not demise. Interesting information...thanks for the share.

CANDLEQUEEN · ‎03-09-2010

I am afraid of them. Ever since seeing them in the Carribean years ago......They are fascinating looking, but also scary to me, so I wouldn't go anywhere near them. I remember my niece used to live for 4 years in Curacao and the Iguanas were so huge, they were all over her wall in her backyard sunning themselves.......I heard about the falling ones on the news this morning!Yikes!

Preds · ‎12-17-2012

Image may contain: possible text that says 'Marked Safe From Falling Iguanas Today'

My ex SIL lives in the Keys. She posted this. LOL Her friend in Miami sent her pictures of theirs belly up. Poor babies.

Fate whispers to her, "You cannot withstand the storm." She whispers back, "I am the storm."

patbz · ‎03-10-2010

In Aruba they wrangle them up and move them away from tourist areas.

KingstonsMom · ‎03-09-2010

@Marp wrote:
Not only beware of falling iguanas don't try to handle them. If you do and it happens to be coming out of its state of suspended animation they can be quite aggressive and their teeth are nothing to take lightly.

@Marp

And in addition to their teeth, don't let one smack you with their strong tail, it hurts too!

You never know how strong you are until being strong is the only choice you have.