A Florida boy stepped in to capture an invasive green iguana that had wandered into a backyard swimming pool in Hollywood, Florida, according to local news reports. The unexpected encounter highlights the growing presence of non-native reptiles in suburban South Florida neighborhoods.
The Backyard Incident in Hollywood, Florida
The juvenile iguana was spotted in a residential pool on June 30, according to local reports covering the event. Rather than panicking, a young boy living at the home took immediate action to secure the animal. Green iguanas are strong swimmers and frequently seek out water sources, making residential pools common gathering spots for the large lizards during hot summer months.
According to wildlife authorities, green iguanas are not native to Florida and are classified as a prohibited species due to the damage they cause to local infrastructure, seawalls, and native landscaping. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) allows property owners to humanely kill iguanas on their own property without a permit, and encourages the removal of the invasive reptiles year-round.
Managing Invasive Iguanas in South Florida
South Florida’s subtropical climate provides an ideal habitat for green iguanas, which lack natural predators in the region aside from large snakes and alligators. Municipalities across Broward and Miami-Dade counties routinely deal with complaints regarding iguanas burrowing under foundations, damaging gardens, and dropping into swimming pools.
Pest control experts and wildlife removal services recommend several steps for homeowners encountering iguanas:
- Seal off potential hiding spots under decks, docks, and porches.
- Modify landscaping by removing dense thickets and favorite food sources like hibiscus and orchids.
- Install sheet metal guards around trees to prevent iguanas from climbing into yards.
- Contact professional nuisance wildlife removers for safe extraction if the animal is large or aggressive.
While the Hollywood pool incident ended without injury to the resident, wildlife officials advise the public to exercise caution when handling wild reptiles, as large iguanas possess sharp teeth and powerful tails capable of inflicting defensive bites and scratches.