Frozen Iguanas Fall From Trees in Florida Cold Snap

A recent cold snap in Florida has led to a surreal and viral natural event: invasive green iguanas are falling frozen and immobilized from trees.

As cold-blooded reptiles, iguanas cannot regulate their internal body temperature, and when prolonged cold weather hits, they enter a torpor-like state where they temporarily lose all muscle control, appearing stiff and lifeless.

Footage from parks and sidewalks shows the large reptiles—which can grow over five feet long and weigh up to 17 pounds—lying motionless on the ground after dropping from branches.

Specialized removal companies have been busy, with one team reporting the collection of approximately 1,500 iguanas in Broward County alone.

While the iguanas look deceased, most are not dead; they will typically thaw and recover fully once temperatures rise, offering a stark and unusual visual reminder of the impact weather has on invasive species and the delicate balance of local ecosystems.