Iguanas are a growing concern for property owners in Florida, especially in South Florida, where the warm climate supports their rapid reproduction and survival. While these herbivorous lizards may appear harmless, lounging in trees or sunbathing on sidewalks, they can cause major problems in residential areas, including damage to landscaping, sidewalks, and seawalls.
One of the most frequently asked questions about these reptiles is: Do iguanas lay eggs? The answer is yes—female iguanas lay eggs, and lots of them. Understanding their reproductive habits is key to addressing an iguana problem and determining whether wildlife removal is necessary.
This article will walk you through everything you need to know about iguana eggs, nesting sites, and how to identify potential breeding season activity on your property. Whether you’re a pet owner, a homeowner, or a professional pest control expert, this guide will help you take informed action.
Do Iguanas Lay Eggs?
Yes, iguanas lay eggs. Specifically, female iguanas from various species—including green iguanas, the most common type found in Florida—are prolific egg layers. After reaching sexual maturity, these females will lay eggs annually, often digging extensive burrows on residential and commercial properties to do so.
Unlike mammals, there is no physical contact between male and female iguanas during fertilization. Instead, male iguanas will fertilize eggs internally after mating, and the female will later dig a nest to lay them in.
Reproductive Cycle of Green Iguanas
Green iguanas (Iguana iguana), native to Central America, South America, and now Florida, have a well-defined breeding season. In South Florida, this season typically occurs from late fall through early spring, aligned with the region’s dry season.
Key phases of the iguana reproduction cycle include:
- Mating: Usually occurs in winter months, often December through February in Florida.
- Egg Development: Takes about 6 to 8 weeks within the female’s body after mating.
- Laying: Occurs from February to April, when female iguanas seek nesting sites with loose, sandy soil.
- Incubation Period: The eggs incubate for about 90 to 120 days, depending on body temperature and warmer temperatures of the soil.
- Hatchlings Emerge: Typically occurs during the wet season, often from June to August.
Nesting Sites and Clutch Size
During nesting, female iguanas dig burrows that can be up to 3 feet long. These nests are commonly found in:
- Lawns and garden beds
- Under sidewalks and foundations
- Near canal banks and seawalls
- In parks and golf courses
A single mature female can lay a clutch size of 20 to 70 eggs in one season. The sheer volume is one reason these reptiles have become so invasive in Florida.
Once the eggs are laid, the female leaves the nest and does not return. The eggs develop on their own until they hatch, and the baby iguanas (called hatchlings) emerge with a special egg tooth used to hatch from the inside.
Hatchlings and Survival
When the hatchlings emerge, they are fully independent. They are miniature versions of adults and begin feeding on plants immediately. However, young iguanas face many predators, including:
- Snakes
- Birds of prey
- Raccoons
- Feral cats
Despite these threats, iguanas have a high reproductive success rate in South Florida due to the lack of natural predators and favorable habitat.
How to Identify an Iguana Nest on Your Property
If you’re noticing sandy mounds or long, tunnel-like holes in your yard, it may be an iguana nest. Key indicators include:
- Multiple females are seen digging in the same area (often near trees or warm, sunny patches of ground)
- Loose, sandy soil with a shallow burrow
- Increased iguana sightings during the first week of warmer months
- Presence of baby iguanas during summer
Property owners should exercise caution and wear protective gloves when inspecting suspicious areas, as disturbing a nest could cause aggressive behavior or accidental contact with bacteria.
Why This Matters for Florida Property Owners
Because iguanas lay so many eggs and prefer residential areas for nesting, homeowners in Florida are at constant risk of property damage. Common problems include:
- Cracks in foundations and sidewalks from burrowing
- Erosion near water bodies due to collapsed nests
- Destroyed landscaping from eating plants
- Unsanitary conditions from droppings
Iguana removal is often the only long-term solution for properties experiencing regular iguana activity, especially during the breeding season.
Preventing Iguana Nesting on Your Property
Here are some ways to make your property less attractive to female iguanas looking to lay eggs:
- Seal Burrows: Fill in any holes or suspected burrows with rocks or concrete.
- Remove Food Sources: Keep plants trimmed and remove fallen fruit, flowers, or uneaten pet food. Iguanas eat these items, which will attract them to your yard.
- Use Physical Barriers: Install fencing around gardens or under decks where iguanas may dig.
- Eliminate Attractants: Reduce warm nesting sites like piles of leaves or brush.
- Call Professionals: Hire licensed wildlife removal experts to safely relocate animals and remove iguana eggs when found.
The Role of Male Iguanas
While only female iguanas lay eggs, male iguanas play a crucial role during mating. They defend territory aggressively and may mate with multiple females during the breeding season.
Male behavior often becomes more visible in winter, with increased displays like:
- Head bobbing
- Body inflation
- Bright orange or red coloring
- Territorial aggression
These visual signals can help identify when mating activity is occurring and signal that females will soon be searching for nesting sites.
Iguanas and the Environment
Although iguanas are native to South America and Central America, they are invasive in Florida. Their presence disrupts local ecosystems, displaces native species, and contributes to erosion along waterways.
Unlike many reptiles, iguanas are excellent swimmers and can travel long distances via canals, making it difficult to control their spread.
Get Connected to Iguana Removal in Florida
Iguanas can lay eggs, and they tend to reproduce in bulk. This means your property could quickly become overrun by iguanas. Unfortunately, this puts you at risk of experiencing property damage, health risks to household pets, and more.
For Florida property owners, early detection of nests and understanding iguana behavior can prevent long-term damage. If you suspect an iguana problem, contact Nuisance Wildlife Rangers and take action before the next breeding season begins.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can iguanas lay eggs without mating?
Yes, female iguanas can lay infertile eggs even if they haven’t mated with a male iguana. This is known as parthenogenesis, although it’s rare in green iguanas. More commonly, the eggs laid without fertilization simply won’t develop into hatchlings. These unfertilized eggs can still attract pests and should be removed promptly by a wildlife professional.
2. What should I do if I find iguana eggs on my property?
If you find a nest or exposed iguana eggs, avoid disturbing them directly. It’s best to wear protective gloves if you must inspect the area. Because iguanas are considered invasive in Florida, you are allowed to remove the eggs, but it’s recommended to contact a licensed wildlife removal expert to ensure it’s done safely and in compliance with local regulations.
3. How long do baby iguanas stay near the nest after hatching?
Hatchlings do not stay in the nest or with their mother. Once they break free from the egg using a special egg tooth, they immediately disperse and begin foraging on their own. There is no parental care in iguanas, and the young are entirely independent from birth.
4. Can iguanas be attracted to certain types of landscaping or yards?
Yes, iguanas are drawn to yards with abundant plants, especially those with fruit trees, leafy vegetables, or ornamental flowers. Dense shrubs and trees also provide shade and climbing opportunities. Warm, sandy areas are particularly attractive to females looking for nesting sites. Reducing ground cover and minimizing plant debris can make your property less appealing.
5. Do iguanas lay eggs indoors or only outside?
In rare cases, iguanas—especially escaped pets or indoor populations—may attempt to lay eggs indoors if they feel secure. They might choose secluded spots like behind appliances or under furniture. Pet owners should provide a proper nesting box or consult a vet to avoid egg binding, a serious health risk if the female iguana can’t lay her eggs.
6. Are there legal restrictions on removing iguanas or their eggs in Florida?
In Florida, green iguanas are classified as a non-native invasive species, so property owners are legally allowed to humanely kill or remove them on private property without a permit (Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission). However, it’s strongly advised to use professional services to handle egg removal, as improper handling can lead to legal or environmental consequences.
