Iguanas, while intriguing creatures, can cause significant headaches for property owners, particularly in areas where they have become invasive. These large lizards, often found in warm climates like Florida, are not native to the region, and their presence can lead to various issues that negatively impact properties. Understanding the consequences of having iguanas on your property is crucial, as is knowing when to seek professional pest control services to mitigate the damage.
Landscape Destruction
One of the most immediate and visible impacts of iguanas on property is the destruction of landscaping. Iguanas are primarily herbivores, meaning they feed on plants, and they have a particular fondness for fruits, flowers, and leafy greens. Homeowners who have invested time and money into maintaining beautiful gardens can find their efforts quickly undone by these reptiles.
Iguanas are known to feast on a variety of plants, including hibiscus, bougainvillea, orchids, and many types of vegetables. Their feeding habits can strip plants of their leaves, flowers, and fruits, leaving gardens barren and unsightly. This damage not only affects the aesthetic appeal of a property but can also diminish the value of the home if the landscaping is severely impacted.
Structural Damage
Beyond their impact on gardens, iguanas can also cause significant structural damage to properties. One of their most destructive behaviors is burrowing. Iguanas dig extensive tunnel systems for nesting and shelter, which can undermine the foundations of buildings, sidewalks, seawalls, and other structures. Over time, these burrows can lead to erosion and destabilization, causing cracks, collapses, and other serious damage.
For properties near water, such as those along canals or coastlines, the erosion caused by iguana burrows can be particularly problematic. Seawalls can become compromised, leading to costly repairs and increased vulnerability to flooding and storm damage.
Health Hazards
Iguanas can also pose health risks to property owners and their pets. While iguanas are generally not aggressive toward humans, they can carry salmonella, a bacterium that can cause serious illness in humans. The bacteria are typically spread through contact with the iguana’s skin or droppings, which can be found around the property if iguanas are present.
Additionally, iguanas can become aggressive if they feel threatened, particularly during mating season or when protecting their nests. A cornered iguana may lash out with its tail, deliver a painful bite, or use its sharp claws to defend itself. These injuries, while rare, can require medical attention.
Noise and Odor
Another often overlooked impact of iguanas is the noise and odor they can generate. Iguanas are not particularly noisy animals, but their presence can attract other wildlife, such as raccoons or birds, which may increase the overall noise level around a property. Additionally, the droppings left behind by iguanas can emit a strong, unpleasant odor, particularly in warm weather. This odor can make outdoor areas less enjoyable and can be difficult to remove without professional cleaning.
Damage to Pools and Patios
Iguanas are excellent climbers and swimmers, which means they often find their way into swimming pools and onto patios. Their presence in pools can lead to contamination, as iguanas can defecate in the water, leading to unsanitary conditions that require immediate cleaning and water treatment. On patios, iguanas may scratch or damage outdoor furniture, chew on plants, or leave droppings that can stain surfaces and create additional cleaning work for homeowners.
The Role of Pest Control Services
Given the extensive damage that iguanas can cause, it’s crucial for property owners to take action as soon as they notice these reptiles on their property. While some homeowners may attempt DIY removal methods, these are often ineffective and can even be dangerous. Iguanas are protected under Florida law, which means they must be handled humanely, and improper removal can result in fines or other legal consequences.
This is where professional pest control services come into play. Pest control experts have the knowledge, experience, and tools necessary to safely and effectively remove iguanas from your property. They can also provide preventative measures to help keep iguanas from returning, such as installing barriers or treating areas prone to iguana activity.
By working with a professional pest control service, homeowners can protect their property from further damage, avoid health risks, and ensure that iguanas are removed in a humane and legally compliant manner.
Don’t be Negligent
Iguanas may be fascinating to observe in the wild, but when they invade your property, they can become a significant nuisance. From landscape destruction and structural damage to health hazards and noise, the negative impact of iguanas on property owners is considerable. If you’re dealing with an iguana problem, it’s important to act quickly and enlist the help of professional pest control services to remove these pests and safeguard your property for the future.
