Iguanas and Wildlife Pests in South Florida: Identification, Damage, and Legal Removal

The Growing Wildlife Pest Problem in South Florida

Miami-Dade County has a wildlife pest problem unlike anywhere else in the continental United States. South Florida's subtropical climate, abundant vegetation, and extensive canal systems have created ideal habitat for invasive species that now cause millions of dollars in property damage annually. From green iguanas sunning on seawalls to raccoons nesting in attics, wildlife conflicts in South Florida are an everyday reality for homeowners.

Understanding which animals you're dealing with, the specific damage they cause, and — critically — the legal framework governing their removal is essential. Florida has specific regulations about how and when wildlife can be removed, and violating these laws can result in fines and criminal charges.

Green Iguanas: South Florida's Most Visible Invasive Pest

The green iguana (*Iguana iguana*) is arguably the most recognizable invasive species in Miami-Dade County. Originally from Central and South America, green iguanas were introduced to South Florida through the pet trade and have established massive breeding populations throughout South Florida.

Identification

Adult green iguanas can reach five to six feet in length including their tail. They range in color from bright green (juveniles) to grayish-green, orange, or even blue-tinted (mature males). They have a distinctive row of spines along their back and a large dewlap (throat flap) used for thermoregulation and territorial displays.

Damage to South Florida Properties

Iguanas cause extensive damage across Miami-Dade County:

• Landscaping destruction: Iguanas are herbivores that devour flowering plants, garden vegetables, fruit trees, and ornamental landscaping. Hibiscus, bougainvillea, orchids, and fruit trees are particularly targeted.

• Structural damage: Iguanas dig extensive burrows for nesting, which can undermine seawalls, foundations, sidewalks, and canal banks. Burrow collapse is a serious concern for waterfront properties in South Florida.

• Roof and pool damage: Iguanas climb on roofs and leave droppings that stain tile and screening. Their droppings in pools create a health hazard due to potential salmonella contamination.

• Electrical hazards: Iguanas occasionally enter transformers and electrical panels, causing power outages. FPL has documented numerous iguana-related outages in Miami-Dade County.

Legal Status and Removal

As of Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) regulations, green iguanas are classified as an invasive species and are not protected in Florida. Property owners in Miami-Dade County may humanely kill green iguanas on their own property at any time without a permit. However, methods must be humane — Florida animal cruelty laws still apply. The FWC recommends:

- Live trapping and humane euthanasia

- Pellet guns (where local discharge ordinances allow)

- Professional removal services

It is illegal to release captured iguanas back into the wild in Florida. They must be humanely euthanized if captured.

Deterrence and Exclusion

- Wrap tree trunks with slick metal sheeting to prevent climbing

- Install screening or mesh around pool enclosures

- Use iguana-resistant plants in landscaping (crotons and citrus are less attractive)

- Remove fruit that falls on the ground

- Fill burrows with concrete or gravel

Raccoons in South Florida

Raccoons (*Procyon lotor*) are native to Florida and are extremely common throughout Miami-Dade County. While they may appear charming, raccoons are highly destructive when they establish themselves in or around residential structures.

Common Problems

• Attic invasions: Raccoons are strong enough to rip open soffits, fascia, and roof vents to access attics. Once inside, they destroy insulation with urine and feces, damage ductwork, and create noise disturbances.

• Garbage raiding: South Florida's residential neighborhoods provide abundant food sources through garbage cans, pet food, and fruit trees.

• Disease risk: Raccoons can carry rabies, raccoon roundworm (*Baylisascaris procyonis*), leptospirosis, and canine distemper. Their latrines (communal defecation sites) are a particular health hazard.

• Pet conflicts: Raccoons can injure cats and small dogs, and they can transmit diseases to pets.

Legal Removal in Miami-Dade County

In Florida, raccoons are classified as a fur-bearing game animal. They can be trapped and removed, but specific regulations apply:

- A wildlife control operator license or a hunting license is required for trapping

- Trapped raccoons must be released on the same property or humanely euthanized — it is illegal to relocate them to another property

- Raccoons may not be kept as pets in Florida

- Lethal control methods must comply with Florida animal cruelty statutes

For most South Florida homeowners, hiring a licensed wildlife control operator is the recommended approach. Miami-Dade County Pest Control can coordinate professional raccoon removal and exclusion services.

Opossums in Miami-Dade County

The Virginia opossum (*Didelphis virginiana*) is North America's only marsupial, and it's a frequent visitor to South Florida properties. Opossums are generally less destructive than raccoons, and they actually provide some benefits — they eat ticks, small rodents, and cockroaches. However, they can still cause problems.

Common Problems

• Nesting in garages, sheds, and crawl spaces: Opossums seek dark, sheltered areas for denning.

• Pet food theft: They are attracted to outdoor pet food bowls and garbage.

• Droppings and odor: Opossums can leave considerable feces in areas where they den.

• Perceived threat: While opossums hiss and bare their teeth when threatened, they are generally docile and rarely bite. Their famous "playing dead" behavior is an involuntary response to extreme fear.

Legal Status

Opossums are classified as a game animal in Florida and are subject to similar regulations as raccoons. Trapping and removal should be conducted by a licensed wildlife control operator.

Other Wildlife Pests in South Florida

Muscovy Ducks

Muscovy ducks are an invasive species that has established feral populations throughout Miami-Dade County. They leave large droppings on driveways, pool decks, and docks. Under federal law, feral Muscovy ducks can be removed without a federal permit, but local regulations in South Florida may apply.

Rats and Bats

While rats are covered in other Miami-Dade County Pest Control resources, it's worth noting that bats sometimes enter South Florida homes through roofline gaps. Bats are protected in Florida, and exclusion (one-way doors) must be conducted outside of maternity season (April 15 through August 15). It is illegal to kill or harm bats in Florida.

Wild Chickens and Peacocks

In some Miami-Dade County neighborhoods, feral chickens and peafowl have become a nuisance. These are typically governed by local municipal codes rather than state wildlife regulations.

The Burmese Python Situation

While Burmese pythons are primarily a problem in the Everglades and western parts of Miami-Dade County, their expanding range occasionally brings them into residential areas in western South Florida. These snakes can exceed 15 feet in length and pose a threat to pets and small wildlife. If you encounter a Burmese python on your property, contact FWC's Exotic Species Reporting Hotline. Python removal is handled by FWC-authorized agents. Never attempt to capture a large python yourself.

Exclusion: The Long-Term Solution

For raccoons, opossums, and other wildlife that enter structures, exclusion is the permanent solution. This involves:

1. Thorough inspection of the roofline, soffits, fascia, vents, and foundation for entry points

2. Humane removal of any animals currently inside the structure

3. Sealing all entry points with heavy-gauge hardware cloth, galvanized steel, or concrete

4. Attic restoration — removing contaminated insulation, sanitizing, and re-insulating

For iguanas, exclusion focuses on landscape modification and physical barriers rather than structural sealing.

When to Call a Professional in South Florida

While homeowners can take steps to deter wildlife, professional help from Miami-Dade County Pest Control is recommended when:

- Animals have entered the structure (attic, crawl space, walls)

- Iguanas are actively burrowing near foundations or seawalls

- A raccoon latrine has been found (hazardous cleanup required)

- You need to comply with Florida's wildlife regulations

- Animal damage has affected wiring, plumbing, or structural components

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it legal to shoot iguanas in Miami-Dade County?

Green iguanas may be killed humanely on your own property. However, firearm discharge laws vary by municipality in South Florida. Many incorporated areas prohibit discharging firearms, even pellet guns, within city limits. Check your local ordinances before using any projectile method.

Will a raccoon in my attic leave on its own?

Sometimes, but often not quickly enough to prevent significant damage. Female raccoons that den in attics to give birth will remain for weeks or months while raising their young. The longer they stay, the more damage accumulates. Professional removal and exclusion is the recommended approach.

Can iguanas damage my seawall?

Yes. Iguana burrows are a leading cause of seawall deterioration in Miami-Dade County. The burrows allow water infiltration that weakens the wall's foundation. Seawall repairs caused by iguana damage can cost thousands of dollars.

Are opossums dangerous to my pets?

Opossums rarely attack pets. They are more likely to flee or play dead. However, they can carry fleas and ticks that transfer to pets, and they can potentially transmit diseases through contact with feces. Keep pet food indoors and secure garbage to minimize opossum visits.

What should I do if I find a snake in my South Florida home?

Don't attempt to handle it. Florida has several venomous species, and some non-venomous snakes closely resemble venomous ones. Close the room, place a towel under the door, and contact a professional wildlife removal service or FWC for identification and safe removal.

How much does professional wildlife removal cost?

Costs vary based on the animal, the extent of the intrusion, and the exclusion work required. A simple live-trapping and removal may cost a few hundred dollars, while full exclusion and attic restoration after a raccoon intrusion can cost several thousand. Miami-Dade County Pest Control provides detailed estimates after inspection.