The United States Association of Reptile Keepers-Florida (USARK) recently praised the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) for its vote allowing for the increased removal of Green iguanas in the state, which are invasive in Florida and do not belong in its environment.
"We have worked very hard with FWC to create rule changes which will allow more people to remove nonnative species," USARK Florida President Elizabeth Wisneski said in a release. "This will benefit Florida’s environment and our small businesses."
According to USARK, the commission's action "will allow more citizens to be permitted to capture live iguanas for sale out of state."
The vote was on May 21.
USARK emphasizes the responsible "keeping, conservation, and welfare" of reptiles, including Green iguanas. They also advocate for "education, advocacy, and best practices."
Before 2021, Florida businesses were permitted to remove the Green iguana, resulting in hundreds of thousands of captures. Under a subsequent FWC rule change, a prohibition took effect, resulting in a surge in the reptile's population.
Green iguanas can grow up to five feet in length and weigh up to 17 pounds. They are easily recognizable by their green color and spikes from the neck to the tail.
You also might notice them chomping on your fruit and vegetable plants. They can be a nuisance for Florida homeowners looking to grow or maintain a garden.
While a welcome start for many, Wisneski believes the FWC's policy can go further.
"FWC must reform caging regulations to make it economically feasible for businesses to be able to house iguanas. FWC has not taken action on allowing the collection of eggs," Wisneski added.
Story photo credit: Green Iguana in the wild in Monroe County, Florida. Photo by Daniel Parker.
