Operation: Eviction Notice for Jurassic Jr. - How to Get Rid of Iguanas in South Florida (Without Resorting to Duct Tape)
Look, we all love a little Jurassic Park action in our lives, but when that "action" involves a green Godzilla wannabe chowing down on your hibiscus and leaving behind a personal landmine surprise, it's time to take action. If you're tired of sharing your pool with a prehistoric punk rocker, then this guide is for you.
How To Get Rid Of Iguanas In South Florida |
Step One: Become an Iguana Indiana Jones (Minus the Fedora)
First things first, you gotta understand your enemy. These scaly squatters are actually vegetarian lawnmowers with a penchant for lounging. They love basking in the sun, munching on leaves, and using your swimming pool as their own personal spa. Key takeaway: Disrupt their sunbathing routine and eliminate their food sources.
Subheading: Operation Sunblock
Iguanas are all about that golden glow. Make those sunbeams less appealing by installing shade cloth over your favorite lounging spots. Think of it as putting up an "Adults Only" sign at the lizard tanning salon.
Subheading: The Great Leaf Caper
Reminder: Short breaks can improve focus.
Those hibiscus may look lovely, but trim back any vegetation close to your house that might be iguana chow. Fences are another climbing highway, so keep tree branches trimmed away as well.
Step Two: Deploy the Decoy Dozen (or Four)
Just like any unwelcome guest, iguanas respond best to the hint that they've overstayed their welcome. Here's where you get creative:
- The Scarecrow Shuffle: Set up some creepy scarecrow iguana decoys around your property. Bonus points if you give them grumpy expressions.
- The Motion-Activated Maracas: Install motion-activated sprinklers or wind chimes . A surprise shower or a serenade of clanging bells is a great way to break up an iguana's day.
- The Ultrasonic Orchestra (For the Discriminating Iguana): Ultrasonic repellents emit high-frequency sounds that iguanas find unpleasant. Think of it as an iguana rave gone bad.
Step Three: Fortress Fence - Building the Great Wall of Nope
Sometimes, you gotta go full-on medieval on these unwanted guests. Here are some fencing options to consider:
- The Slippery Slope: Roll out some mesh fencing along the bottom of your existing fence. Iguanas are great climbers, but not so good on surfaces that resemble an ice rink.
- The Wall Says No: Metal flashing attached to the top of your fence can provide a smooth, unclimbable surface . Just be sure it's high enough so even the most ambitious iguana can't reach over.
Important Note: Always check with your local ordinances before making any permanent changes to your property.
Tip: Look out for transitions like ‘however’ or ‘but’.
How to... FAQs on Iguana Eviction
How to trap an iguana?
In Florida, you can trap iguanas with live traps and then humanely euthanize them. Important: Releasing a trapped iguana elsewhere is illegal.
How to get rid of iguana eggs?
Iguana eggs can be carefully removed and destroyed . Warning: Be very cautious, mama iguanas can be quite protective of their nests.
QuickTip: Reflect before moving to the next part.
How to deter iguanas with smells?
There are commercial iguana repellents available that contain ingredients like garlic or predator urine. Remember: These may not be effective on all iguanas.
How to keep iguanas out of my pool?
A pool cover is your best bet. You can also try specially designed pool floats that deter iguanas.
QuickTip: Repetition reinforces learning.
How to coexist peacefully with iguanas?
While not ideal, if the iguana population isn't overwhelming, you can try to live and let live . Just be sure to keep your distance and don't encourage them with food scraps.
With a little effort and some creative thinking, you can turn your yard back into an iguana-free zone. Remember, persistence is key! Just don't expect them to leave a forwarding address.