Is it legal for the public to kill iguanas in Florida?

Sarasota residents, along with all Floridians, can legally capture and humanely remove iguanas on private property with landowner permission since the species is invasive to the state.

Humanely killing a nonnative reptile means ensuring it loses consciousness immediately and remains unconscious by “pithing” its brain.

Animal cruelty laws still apply to those who inhumanely kill the animal, including freezing or drowning.

All types of iguanas are invasive to Florida, but the black spiny-tailed species is most commonly spotted in Sarasota. The black spiny-tailed iguana eat the eggs of native birds, and can displace gopher tortoises while seeking refuge underground.

Though not common in Sarasota, some residents have reported sightings. Iguanas favor warmer climates, so spring through early fall is prime time to spot them.