MIAMI, FL – An urban legend came true as iguanas begin falling from the trees in Florida!
Iguanas are not native to the state, but pets are often released into the wild by owners who no longer want them. They have since taken up living in the trees.
Most resident would have no idea they were up there, if it weren’t for the recent cold snap across the States. As temperatures dip below 40 degrees, the iguanas have begun falling from the branches!
In intensely cold conditions, the reptiles go into a comatose state, with little blood flowing through their bodies. As this occurs, their grip loosens and they fall from the trees.
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Vqq9XUZhJ4]
As the air warms, the iguanas often recover. However, some residents think this is the opportune time to get rid of the foreign pests once and for all.
However, Ron Magill of Miami Metrozoo warned against being too callous. “I knew of a gentleman who was collecting them off the street and throwing them in the back of his station wagon, and all of a sudden these things are coming alive, crawling on his back and almost causing a wreck.”
that is so sad, I am not partial to lizards,but that is a shame.
Photo is of a Cuban Knight's Anole, Anolis equestris, NOT an iguana. BTW, this is also yet another invasive species in FL, thanks to the pet trade!
Sounds like a "Mid-Nite Movie" I have – in that one,the lizzard eats a roadster and a train !!
I know this is probably a little picky but I live in South Florida and the picture of the 'frozen lizard on the sidewalk' at the top of the article is NOT an iguana. It's a Cuban Knight Anole.
This is supposed to be a reliable news source, then why is the article titled Frozen Iguanas when the lizards pictured are not iguanas at all, but Cuban anoles? Anoles are vicious, and anyone handling them should be very careful. We have 7 in our house right now 'thawing out'.
The local radio stations are also urging hunters to kill Burmese Python's when they spot them. These pythons will be very sedentary and prone to sunning themselves during this extended cold spell! They are another destructive and invasive species-with no natural enemies. They are large enough to kill dogs, cats, children and small adults, so blast away!