safety
The freeze thinned South Florida's iguanas. Experts say the invasive reptiles are rebounding fast
By Joan Murray at CBS4 Miami
· June 9, 2026
· 2 min read
Just months after a South Florida cold snap left thousands of invasive iguanas stunned and sluggish, making them easier for wildlife removal crews to capture and euthanize, experts say the reptiles have quickly rebounded and are once again causing problems for homeowners across the region.Blake Wilk
Key takeaway For 14 years, Alex says she's dealt with iguanas invading her property, destroying plants and even making their way into her home.
Why this matters in The Miami
The rapid rebound of invasive iguanas in South Florida poses a significant concern for homeowners, particularly in areas like Miami-Dade County where the reptiles have already caused considerable damage. As the iguana population grows, so does the risk of property damage, with the reptiles burrowing under foundations, destroying landscaping, and even causing roof damage. The fact that a single female iguana can lay up to 70 eggs fuels this rapid population growth, making it a challenge for wildlife removal crews to keep up. In neighborhoods like Little Havana and Wynwood, where fruit trees are common, removing fallen fruit and sealing openings around properties can help deter iguanas. However, for many homeowners, like Mary Alex, the problem persists, and the financial burden of repeated removals can be substantial. As the region's iguana population continues to grow, it's crucial for homeowners to take proactive measures to protect their properties and for local authorities to consider long-term solutions to mitigate the impact of these invasive reptiles.
About this story
Original reporting by CBS4 Miami . The Miami surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit CBS4 Miami . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: safety ·
Published: June 9, 2026 ·
Source: CBS4 Miami ·
Reading time: 2 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? Just months after a South Florida cold snap left thousands of invasive iguanas stunned and sluggish, making them easier for wildlife removal crews to capture and euthanize, experts say the reptiles have quickly rebounded and are once again causing problems for homeowners across the region.Blake Wilk
When was this published? This article was first published on June 9, 2026 by CBS4 Miami and curated for The Miami readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Joan Murray at CBS4 Miami. To learn more about how The Miami selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more safety coverage from The Miami, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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