The Sunshine State's Slithery Stowaways: A Guide to Florida's Invasive Lizards
Florida: land of sunshine, beaches, retirees living their best life, and apparently, a whole bunch of lizards who forgot to check an immigration map. That's right, folks, the Sunshine State boasts a surprising number of reptilian residents who weren't exactly invited to the pool party. But fear not, intrepid lizard enthusiast (or concerned homeowner), this guide will shed some light on these scaly squatters.
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| What Lizards Are Invasive In Florida |
The Usual Suspects: Florida's Most Wanted Lizards
The Green Iguana: Imagine a prehistoric dinosaur shrunk down to the size of a small dog. Now, picture it munching on your prize hibiscus bush. That's the Green Iguana, a gentle giant with a serious appetite. These guys are escapees from the exotic pet trade, and now they're lounging in the sun like they own the place (well, technically, they kind of do).
The Brown Anole: These little brown buddies are everywhere. They're like the pigeons of the lizard world – adaptable, prolific, and masters of camouflage (except for that bright red dewlap the males like to flash around). They snuck in from Cuba, probably hitching a ride on a freighter full of cigars, and now they're giving our native green anoles a run for their money.
The Knight Anole: Think the Brown Anole is big? Buckle up, because the Knight Anole is here to play! This emerald green giant hails from Cuba as well, and it wouldn't look out of place perched on a pirate's shoulder. Luckily, they're not as common as their brown cousins, but their size still makes them a head-turner.
The Bonus Round: The Peter's Rock Agama: This newcomer to the Florida party is like the flamboyant cousin nobody knew existed. With its bright orange head and spiky Mohawk, it's definitely the most eye-catching lizard on the block. Originally from Africa, they're establishing themselves in South Florida, and their vibrant looks might make you wonder if you accidentally wandered into a Jurassic Park petting zoo.
Living with Reptilian Roomies: How to Deal (or Not Deal) with Invasive Lizards
Let's be honest, these lizards aren't exactly dangerous (unless you have a crippling fear of reptiles, then maybe). But they can be a nuisance and a threat to native wildlife. So, what can you do?
Become a Lizard Identification Extraordinaire: Knowledge is power! Learn to identify the invasive lizards so you can report sightings to the authorities (or at least impress your friends at your next barbeque).
Eviction is a Tricky Business: Don't go all Crocodile Dundee on these uninvited guests. There are humane ways to discourage them, like habitat modification (make your yard less lizard-friendly) or calling in a professional wildlife removal service.
Embrace the Chaos: Look, these lizards are here to stay. Maybe they'll add a touch of the exotic to your backyard. Just picture yourself having a poolside chat with a Green Iguana – that's a story guaranteed to get a reaction at your next cocktail party.
Florida's Invasive Lizards: Frequently Asked Questions
How to Identify an Invasive Lizard?
Tip: Pause whenever something stands out.
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The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has a great guide to help you ID these scaly stowaways https://invasivespecies.ifas.ufl.edu/vertebrates/.
How to Get Rid of Invasive Lizards?
QuickTip: Revisit this post tomorrow — it’ll feel new.
Don't try to be a hero! Contact a professional wildlife removal service or your local wildlife agency for advice.
How Dangerous Are Invasive Lizards?
Tip: Reread slowly for better memory.
Generally, they're not dangerous to humans. But they can carry diseases and be a nuisance to pets.
How Can Invasive Lizards Harm the Environment?
Tip: Read actively — ask yourself questions as you go.
They can compete with native wildlife for food and resources, disrupting the delicate balance of the ecosystem.
How Can I Help Control Invasive Lizards?
Report sightings to the authorities and avoid releasing unwanted exotic pets into the wild. By working together, we can keep Florida's native wildlife healthy and happy.
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