Florida Iguanas Stunned by Cold Snap, But Population Expected to Rebound

Thousands of invasive iguanas were collected after a recent cold front, but experts warn the reptiles' high reproductive rate will likely lead to a population resurgence.

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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A recent Arctic cold front brought a temporary reprieve to Florida's ongoing battle with invasive iguanas, stunning or killing large numbers of the reptiles. The cold snap saw temperatures plummet to near freezing as far south as Homestead, resulting in the largest culling of the iguana population since similar weather in 2010.

Why it matters

In recent years, the iguana population in South Florida has been expanding into Brevard County, causing increasing damage by burrowing into flood control structures, digging under sidewalks, and damaging landscaping. The inclusion of iguanas on the state's 'Dirty Dozen' list of most virulent invasive species highlights the growing recognition of this species as a significant threat to Florida's ecosystem and infrastructure.

The details

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission collected nearly 5,200 cold-stunned iguanas during a two-day program in early February, allowing residents to drop off the temporarily paralyzed animals. Approximately 1,615 live iguanas were rehomed or sold out of state, while the remainder were euthanized, with some going to an exotic leathers manufacturer.

  • In early February 2026, a cold front brought near-freezing temperatures as far south as Homestead, Florida.
  • In 2010, a similar cold snap resulted in a large-scale culling of the invasive iguana population.

The players

Frank Mazzotti

A University of Florida wildlife ecology professor who noted in a 2025 interview that the iguana issue is 'no longer a cute backyard problem,' and action is needed.

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

The state agency that collected nearly 5,200 cold-stunned iguanas during a two-day program in early February 2026, allowing residents to drop off the temporarily paralyzed animals.

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What they’re saying

“Distribution and abundance of green iguanas increased after the 2010 freeze, and I expect the same to happen here.”

— Frank Mazzotti, University of Florida wildlife ecology professor

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

Experts anticipate a rebound in the iguana population due to the reptile's high reproductive rate, despite the recent cold-related mortality. Long-term management strategies will be essential to effectively control the invasive species.

The takeaway

The inclusion of iguanas on Florida's 'Dirty Dozen' list of most virulent invasive species, and the recent cold-related mortality, highlight the growing recognition of this species as a significant threat to the state's ecosystem and infrastructure. While temporary setbacks like cold snaps can offer some control, the iguana's rapid reproduction suggests long-term management strategies will be crucial.