Florida’s “Frozen” Iguanas: Why Compassion Matters During Cold Snaps

In early February 2026, Florida experienced a rare and sudden cold snap that caught both residents and wildlife off guard.
Across neighborhoods, canals, and parks, people were shocked to see green iguanas falling from trees and lying motionless on sidewalks and roads.

At first glance, many assumed the animals were dead.
In reality, most of them were experiencing a temporary condition known as cold-induced torpor.

Green iguanas are cold-blooded reptiles that rely on external temperatures to regulate their bodies.
When temperatures drop below 40°F, their metabolism slows dramatically, causing them to become immobile.

In this state, iguanas may appear lifeless, but they are often still alive.
As temperatures rise, many recover naturally and regain normal movement within hours.

This phenomenon has occurred before in Florida, but the February 2026 cold snap brought renewed attention and concern.
Images of frozen iguanas sparked fear, confusion, and debate across the state.

On January 30, 2026, state wildlife officials issued a temporary executive order allowing the public to collect cold-stunned iguanas over a two-day period.
The order was limited in time and has since expired.

Because green iguanas are classified as an invasive species in Florida, many of the collected animals were euthanized.
This outcome deeply troubled animal welfare advocates.

While the invasive status of iguanas is widely acknowledged, advocates stress that cold snaps should never be used as justification for unnecessary killing.
Torpor is not a terminal condition.

With patience and humane handling, many cold-stunned iguanas can recover fully once temperatures stabilize.
In some cases, placement with permitted wildlife facilities may be a more ethical option.

Animal welfare organizations emphasize that compassion should guide responses during extreme weather events.
Moments of vulnerability should be met with care, not haste.

Cold weather does not change an animal’s capacity to feel stress or fear.
How humans respond during these moments reflects broader values about coexistence and responsibility.

Education plays a critical role in preventing harm.
Understanding torpor can help residents make informed and humane decisions.

Leaving cold-stunned iguanas undisturbed in safe areas is often the best option when possible.
Intervention should always prioritize minimizing suffering.

As climate patterns become more unpredictable, similar events may occur more frequently.
Preparedness and compassion will be increasingly important.

These iguanas did not choose the cold, nor did they choose their environment.
They simply responded to nature.

Moments like this invite reflection on how society treats animals labeled as “unwanted.”
Ethical responses do not disappear when an animal is inconvenient.

In the end, compassion costs little — but it can make the difference between life and needless loss.
Even in the cold, humanity matters.