Florida, known for its warm climate and sunny beaches, experienced an unusual weather phenomenon in late January and early February 2026: an intense cold that caused green iguanas to fall from trees. This cold wave, the most severe since 1989, left unusually low temperatures in the southern part of the state, according to the National Weather Service (NWS).
The surprising spectacle of iguanas falling to the ground can be misleading. Many of these creatures are not dead but simply paralyzed by the low temperatures.
Once the weather warms up, many revive. Taking advantage of this situation, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) reported that 5,195 invasive iguanas were removed in just two days.
The polar air was accompanied by alerts for low temperatures, something unusual for a state more accustomed to using air conditioning than heating.
That Sunday, the NWS recorded minimum temperatures in the range of 20 degrees Fahrenheit (approximately -6 to -1 °C), the lowest since 1989. In Miami, the temperature reached 35 °F (about 2 °C), the lowest figure since December 2010.
Iguanas fall from trees
In Tampa, even snowflakes were observed, a rare event in a region usually characterized by its heat and humidity. This extreme cold increased the reports of reptiles immobile in yards and roads, creating risks for pedestrians and drivers.
Iguanas are ectotherms, meaning they depend on the ambient temperature to regulate their body. When the mercury drops, their metabolism slows, entering a state of torpor with reduced breathing and heart rate. In the trees, the loss of muscle control causes them to fall.
There is no exact temperature for this phenomenon, as it depends on the size of the animal and how quickly the temperature drops. However, in Florida, it has been observed that cold-induced stupor occurs below 50 °F (around 10 °C).
Faced with an apparently immobile iguana, it should not be touched with bare hands, as it could quickly revive and react defensively. The FWC recommended not bringing them indoors, except for authorized relocations.
Legally, the green iguana is a prohibited species in Florida, and possession without a permit is sanctioned. If removal is needed, it is best to contact a wildlife control expert.
Introduced in the 1960s, iguanas have spread along the Atlantic coast and the Gulf of Florida, causing damage to gardens, infrastructure, and competing with native species. The FWC also highlighted the impact of other exotic species established in the state.
Despite this unusual cold, a scientist from the University of Miami noted that cold outbreaks were common before, but now the climate tends to be warmer. The FWC activated an executive order that allowed the removal of thousands of iguanas, a “unique opportunity” to control the population of this invasive species.
The official statement with more details is available at MyFWC.com.
