Frozen Iguanas Falling from Trees as Florida Faces Rare Cold Snap

FLORIDA — The Sunshine State once again lived up to its reputation for strange weather Tuesday, Nov. 11, as frozen iguanas began falling from trees across parts of Florida.

When temperatures dip into the 30s and 40s, these cold-blooded reptiles become temporarily paralyzed by the chill, losing their grip and tumbling to the ground. Although alarming to see, experts say the effect is temporary, and the iguanas typically recover once temperatures rise.

Photos shared on social media showed the bizarre scene from both coasts — one iguana sprawled on its side in Port Charlotte, and another lying belly-up at Howard Park in West Palm Beach.

The phenomenon has become so well-known that meteorologists and weather outlets like the National Weather Service and AccuWeather often warn of potential “falling iguanas” during Florida’s brief cold spells.

🦎 Why Iguanas Freeze

Iguanas thrive in Florida’s tropical climate, often sleeping in trees. When temperatures fall into the 30s or low 40s, their bodies slow down, and they can stiffen up, losing their grip and falling. Once the sun returns, their blood warms, and they gradually “thaw out.”

🌴 Where Iguanas Live

According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), green iguanas are common along the Atlantic Coast in Broward, Miami-Dade, Palm Beach, Martin, and Monroe counties, and on the Gulf Coast in Collier and Lee counties.
Sightings have also been reported farther inland in Alachua, Highlands, Hillsborough, Indian River, and St. Lucie counties.

They often inhabit canal banks, rock piles, culverts, drainage pipes, shrubs, and even golf courses — and during a freeze, they can appear on sidewalks or pool decks.

🚫 What to Do if You Find a Frozen Iguana

FWC advises residents not to touch or bring stunned iguanas indoors, as they are wild, non-native animals that can become aggressive once revived.

Here’s what to keep in mind:

Don’t bring them inside your home, car, or building.
Green iguanas are on Florida’s Prohibited Species List, meaning they cannot be kept or relocated without a permit.
They may be humanely removed from private property with landowner permission, but cannot be released elsewhere.
For safe removal, contact a licensed wildlife control professional.

For more information on green iguanas and how to discourage them from frequenting your property, visit myfwc.com.

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