An army of “invasive” green iguanas has attacked Florida in the USA and has become a major problem for the locals.
Thousands of these monstrous, cold-blooded lizards have invaded homes after tirelessly hunting in the regions for mild weather. The number of these lizards seems to be growing daily.
The reptilian invaders have also wreaked havoc in Palm Beach County, causing power outages and infrastructure damage that have resulted in high costs.
Green iguanas suddenly appear in swimming pools, gardens and household toilets, leaving residents shocked and dismayed.
These notorious creatures burrow near bodies of water because of erosion. As the Daily Star reported, the iguanas chewed through wires and caused 16 power outages in West Palm Beach, leaving several homes in the dark.
Speaking to ClickOrlando, biology expert Matthew Atkinson said, “Honestly, as their population continues to grow in South Florida, they’re just like any other animal. They want to find habitats and resources that they can use to thrive. And since there’s a lot more of that down there, they have to go somewhere else. So they just move up.”
How can iguanas be dangerous to people in Florida?
Wildlife experts warn that iguanas can spread pathogens such as salmonella among their pets.
They can also deliver a vicious bite with their jaws, seriously injuring people. When temperatures drop at night, these reptiles become immobile and sometimes fall from trees. If they fall on people, they can seriously injure them.
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As the number of iguanas in Florida increases, people are advised to look up during nighttime walks and not to scare the animals if they see any.
Lisa Thompson of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission told the BBC: “The FWC advises the public not to bring a hypothermic iguana into their home if they come across one. Iguanas are wild animals and once they have recovered and warmed up they may mount defensive reactions.”
(With contributions from agencies)
