News Summary
A Palmetto Bay homeowner made a remarkable discovery of 98 iguana eggs in her backyard, breaking local records. The iguana eggs were removed with the help of Humane Iguana Control experts, who revealed that three female iguanas nested together. With iguanas being an invasive species, their increasing population poses health risks and property damage. Residents are encouraged to report sightings and work with professionals to manage these creatures effectively.
Florida – A homeowner in Palmetto Bay has made a significant discovery of 98 iguana eggs in her backyard, setting a record for the highest number of eggs removed from a single site in the area. The homeowner reached out to Humane Iguana Control for professional help in managing the situation.
The owner of Humane Iguana Control confirmed that three female iguanas had nested in interconnected burrows, each laying their own clutch of eggs. This unusual find followed multiple inspections and trap setups conducted by experts who monitor iguana activity in the region.
Iguanas are classified as an invasive species in Florida, with estimates suggesting that the population exceeds one million. The state’s warm climate, coupled with plentiful food sources and a lack of natural predators, creates ideal breeding conditions for iguanas. Their breeding season typically spans from February to May, although it can occur throughout the year.
The removal of the eggs from the backyard is considered critical, as iguanas tend to have a 93% hatch rate. This poses a significant issue for local neighborhoods, as large iguana populations can lead to various health hazards. Iguanas frequently defecate in public areas, including pools, schools, and playgrounds, creating potential health concerns for residents.
Additionally, iguanas can cause substantial property damage due to their burrowing behavior. Past incidents have resulted in $1.8 million in damages, primarily from compromised infrastructure, such as dams. Experts warn against untrained individuals attempting to manage iguanas or their eggs, as improper removal techniques can complicate the issue. For instance, covering iguana burrows can compact the soil, making egg retrieval increasingly difficult.
Iguanas are known to exhibit aggressive behavior when threatened, possessing sharp claws and powerful tails that can whip at speeds of up to 30 mph, raising the risk of injury for those who try to handle them without expertise.
The presence of iguanas in the state dates back to the 1960s, when they entered Florida through the pet trade and cargo ships. As their population has grown, so has the need for effective and safe management strategies to protect local environments. It is essential for residents to report iguana sightings to experts, which helps in managing and mitigating the impact of this invasive species.
This situation underscores the necessity for collective action among residents to monitor and control iguana populations. By working together and utilizing professional services, neighborhoods can better protect themselves from the potential threats posed by this invasive species.
Humane Iguana Control continues to encourage communities to adopt proactive measures in preventing iguana breeding and to safeguard their local environments. The discovery of 98 iguana eggs serves as a clear call to action for all residents in Palmetto Bay and beyond.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- UPI: Humane Iguana Control in Florida
- Fox News: Iguana Egg Discovery
- Fox 35 Orlando: Local Record of Iguana Eggs
- WPTV: Iguana Egg Omelet
- Wikipedia: Invasive Species
