Issue of Bizarre Lizard Behavior in South Florida During Cold Weather Brings Relief for Wildlife Experts A freak winter storm has brought attention to a bizarre phenomenon in South Florida, where green iguanas have been falling from trees in large numbers due to the drop in temperatures. A video captured the stunning scene in North Miami Beach on January 22, showing a bright green iguana plummeting from a tree to land on a concrete slab, but left stunned and motionless.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) reveals that green iguanas, an invasive species originally introduced from Central and South America, have been making headlines due to their unusual behavior. These reptiles thrive in warm weather, but they struggle with cold temperatures. ___ in a variety of habitats, including rural areas, suburban developments, and even urban settings... the iguanas don't possess an endothermic thermostat, relying on external sources of heat to maintain ___ temperature.
According to experts, when the temperature drops, their blood flow, heart rate, and circulation decrease, causing paralysis, which is typically temporary. If an individual encounters a stunned iguana, it is essential to leave it alone. These lizards, capable of reaching lengths of over 5 feet and weighing up to 17 pounds, will usually regain their composure once the weather warms up, becoming defensive and biting, "scratching to avoid predators." According to USA TODAY... the stunning footage highlights the rarely seen reaction of the iguanas in response to extreme temperatures.
As said, "Despite the alarming images of the falling lizards, "wildlife experts advise patrolling your yard and social media with utmost care," and leaving well-being in the hands of professionals to handle these little reptiles gently and safely." As the situation ___ temporarily under control, residents of South Florida and nearby areas learn more about this South American invasive species and the adjustment to Florida's unusual climate.
But seriously, do massive lizards really just fall out of the trees in South Florida when it gets cold ? Yes, and you can watch it happen in a video taken by Avrohom Eliezer Friedman in North Miami Beach on Wednesday, Jan. 22, when a freak winter storm drove temps down across the Sunshine State. A bright green iguana can be seen plummeting from a tree to land on a backyard concrete slab and lie there, stunned.
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