As South Florida Warms, a Cold-Blooded Invader Takes Over

Snowbirds—a sometimes-affectionate, sometimes-derisive term for transplants from colder climates—have populated Florida for decades, seeking its warm weather, verdant golf courses and generous lack of income tax. A peskier non-native species has been doing the same, at least for two of those reasons.

Up to 5 feet long and bearing a strong resemblance to miniature dinosaurs, iguanas are an unnerving sight when gathered by the dozens on lawns, road medians and putting greens. Native to South and Central America but observed in the Sunshine State since the 1960s, the creatures were likely imported to Florida by way of the exotic pet trade.