It’s Raining Iguanas! The Wild Reason Behind Florida’s Falling Lizards

Why Iguanas Fall from Trees in Florida

If you live in South Florida, you’ve probably seen, or at least heard about, iguanas falling from trees. It’s one of those strange local phenomena that makes newcomers do a double take. Why would a big, prehistoric-looking lizard suddenly drop out of a palm tree? Let’s break it down.

The Cold-Blooded Truth

Iguanas are cold-blooded reptiles, meaning their body temperature depends entirely on the surrounding environment. When the temperature drops below around 45°F, their bodies can no longer function normally. Muscles become stiff, and they lose their grip on branches and other surfaces.

They’re not dead...they’re temporarily paralyzed. Once the sun warms them back up, they slowly regain movement and can often be seen crawling away as if nothing happened.

Why It Happens in Florida

Florida’s iguanas aren’t native; they come from warmer tropical regions of Central and South America. In their natural habitats, the temperature rarely drops that low. But during our South Florida cold snaps, especially in the early mornings, it can dip just enough to cause iguanas to “freeze and fall.” Areas like Boca Raton, Fort Lauderdale, and Miami often experience these events after a sudden cold front in winter months. Locals might wake up to find “frozen iguanas” scattered across lawns, patios, and pools.

What You Should (and Shouldn’t) Do

If you come across a fallen iguana:

• ❄️ Do not touch or move it. When they warm back up, they can become defensive or bite.

• 🌞 Let the sun do its job. They usually recover on their own once temperatures rise.

• 🦎 Call a licensed wildlife or iguana removal professional if they appear injured or are in a dangerous location.

The Bigger Picture

Falling iguanas might sound funny, but they’re a reminder of how invasive species can struggle—and sometimes thrive—in Florida’s unique ecosystem. These reptiles reproduce quickly, eat native plants, and damage infrastructure.

At Iguana Mama LLC, I specialize in humane iguana removal and public education to help communities coexist responsibly while protecting local wildlife and property.

Fun Fact: Adult male iguanas can weigh over 15 pounds—so when one drops from a tree, you definitely don’t want to be standing underneath!

Photo Courtesy of Wink News