In South Florida, iguanas are everywhere. So now the state agency responsible for protecting wildlife — and dealing with exotic species — is holding workshops to help the public cope with the prolific reptiles.
Green iguanas and black spiny tailed iguanas are both reproducing in the Keys, an area with dozens of endangered and threatened species.
And they're a serious nuisance, foraging on people's landscaping, digging burrows — and defecating on decks and boats and in swimming pools.
In response, the state Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is holding a series of "iguana technical workshops" in the Keys.
The aim is to help people learn how to discourage iguanas from their property — and how to legally remove them.
According to the FWC, iguanas are not protected in Florida — except by anti-animal cruelty laws. It is legal to shoot them on private property during daylight hours with the property owners' permission — but everyone should check with their local law enforcement agency about local laws regarding firearms before discharging them.
The first workshop is planned for 5-8 p.m. Wed., Dec. 13, at the Hyatt Place, 1996 Overseas Highway, in Marathon.
