The Iguana Invasion in South Florida: Understanding the Problem and Effective Solutions

If you live in South Florida, chances are you’ve seen an iguana sprint across your pool deck like it owns the place. Or maybe you’ve noticed strange holes near your seawall, shredded landscaping, or poop that definitely didn’t come from your dog.

I’m Monica, founder of Iguana Mama and a local resident of Boca Raton. I see the green iguana problem up close every day, and trust me, it’s worse than most people think.

Green iguanas are not native to Florida, which means they have no natural predators here. They reproduce quickly, and their numbers have exploded in recent years. What does that mean for you? Cracked sidewalks, destroyed plants, collapsed seawalls, clogged pool filters, and a real risk of salmonella.

They might look like harmless sunbathers, but iguanas are doing serious damage to neighborhoods all across Boca Raton and South Florida.

Why Are Iguanas a Problem in South Florida?

Iguanas thrive in our warm climate, and they love residential areas with lots of trees, seawalls, and pools. Unfortunately, their digging and defecating habits cause thousands of dollars in property damage. They can weaken foundations, destroy gardens, and contaminate areas with bacteria.

You can read more about what makes iguanas so destructive here.

Are Traps Effective for Iguana Removal?

Short answer: No.

You might get lucky and catch an iguana ten to fifteen percent of the time using a trap, but they are rarely effective. Most pest control companies use traps, but they’re not only ineffective, they’re inhumane. Iguanas are smart. They often avoid traps altogether. And when they do get caught, they’re left without food, water, or shade, suffering in the heat until someone checks on them. You also risk catching native wildlife and we don't want that!

That’s not how I do things.

How I Humanely Remove Iguanas in South Florida

I specialize in humane iguana removal using a high-powered air rifle. It’s quick, ethical, and highly effective. Once iguanas are removed from your property, new ones will not move in. These animals are territorial, which means when you get rid of the ones currently living there, you stop the cycle.

No traps. No suffering. Just results.

Why I’m Starting This Blog

I’m launching this blog to keep you informed about South Florida’s growing iguana problem and what you can do about it. Each week, I’ll share tips, real stories from the field, and advice for homeowners and HOAs who are tired of watching their yards turn into a jungle.

Have a question or a topic you want me to cover? Just reach out, or better yet, book a removal visit and I’ll show you exactly what’s going on in your backyard.

Need help with iguana removal in Boca Raton or nearby areas? Contact Iguana Mama today for a free consultation.

Let’s take Florida back, one lizard at a time.

Monica, your friendly neighborhood Iguana Mama 🦎