Invasive green iguana spotted on Longboat

While enjoying the beach on Longboat Key, resident Terri Driver saw an unusual animal: a green iguana that she named Iggy. 

Green iguanas are considered an invasive species in Florida and should be removed, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. They can be detrimental to native landscaping and can damage infrastructure due to the large burrows they dig. 

The large iguanas can grow to over 5 feet in length and weigh up to 17 pounds. They are native to Central America and parts of South America and are seen in the wild as an invasive species in South Florida. 

It's unknown how the green iguana ended up on Longboat Key, but the FWC website says individuals in more northern Florida counties could also be escaped or released captive animals.