Green iguanas are popular “pets.” Hundreds of thousands of green iguanas (many of them caught in the wild) are imported into the United States each year for the pet trade.

Unfortunately, captive iguanas often do not receive proper care and die shortly after their purchase from pet stores. Others escape, or are released into the wild by irresponsible individuals.

These fascinating animals can grow to six feet in length within a few years, and can live for more than 15 years. Green iguanas are excellent climbers, and they can also swim. Green iguanas prefer to live in trees, near water.

Green iguanas are not native to the United States, but like other “exotic” species they have thrived in Florida for many years.

Although most people find these animals fascinating, green iguanas do sometimes cause "problems." The most frequent complaint is that they eat ornamental plants, such as orchids or Hibiscus. Iguanas can also cause problems by digging holes for nesting.

Humane Solutions
Fortunately, there are non-lethal ways to discourage iguanas from becoming a nuisance.

1) First, do not feed iguanas. Feeding only encourages animals to stay.

2) Try to make your property less iguana-friendly by planting landscaping that iguanas will not eat (such as citrus, crotons, or any tough, thick leaved plant). Restricting sources of food is particularly effective during the cooler months since these cold-blooded animals need more food for energy.

3) Plants can be protected using chicken wire.

4) To discourage iguanas from climbing in trees, wrap thin sheets of metal, such as aluminum flashing, around the base of trees. Iguanas can jump; make sure the metal is high enough off the ground to keep them from jumping above the barrier.

5) Sheets of clear plexiglass can be used to prevent iguanas from climbing on screen enclosures.

Garlic-based Iguana Repellent
ARFF has heard from several people who have had success with a spray mixture that deters iguanas from eating plants.

Recipe:
•Take 10 peeled garlic cloves, two cups of water, two tablespoons of vegetable oil and place into a blender (some people also add hot peppers).
•Blend until it is a fine liquid mixture.
•Transfer the mixture into a clean spray mist bottle.
•Spray generously on plants once a week, or more frequently if it rains.

Trapping
The Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission considers the green iguana to be an exotic species; therefore, it is illegal to trap and relocate iguanas. Trappers hired to “solve” a problem involving iguanas almost always will kill the animals. Trappers commonly use cruel snares to capture iguanas.

Never buy an iguana. Instead, adopt one from a rescue group, such as The Wildlife Care Center in Fort Lauderdale. Note: Iguanas are not easy to care for. They require a very specific environment and diet.