Discovery of iguana eggs in Texas could mean more of the reptiles

Wildlife officials in Texas have discovered a nest of iguana eggs, raising the possibility that the green lizards could start spreading across more of the state. The discovery was made near Brownsville, close to the Mexican border.

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department said it was not sure how many eggs were in the nest, but that it appeared to be the first ever found in the state. Up to now, iguanas have been seen only in a few southern counties bordering Mexico.

Iguanas are considered an invasive species in Texas, where they can destroy crops and vegetation. The lizards are also known for their unpleasant odor.

The discovery of the eggs comes as officials in Florida are struggling to control an infestation of iguanas that has been growing for several years. More than 1 million pounds of iguanas have been removed from Florida since 2016, according to The Associated Press.

Some people in Florida have even started eating iguanas, which are considered a delicacy in some parts of the world.

Iguana caught on camera sunning itself on Miami Beach

An Iguana was caught on camera sunning itself on Miami Beach. This is the latest in a string of sightings of the reptiles in the area.

Iguanas have been spotted in Coral Gables, Coconut Grove and other parts of Miami.

In Florida, it is illegal to capture or possess an iguana without a permit. The creatures are considered a nuisance and a threat to native wildlife.

They can grow up to six feet long and weigh up to 20 pounds. They feed on plants, insects and small animals.

People are advised not to approach or touch iguanas, as they may bite. Officials say the best way to get rid of them is to call animal control.

Iguanas falling from trees in Florida as storms move in

Iguanas falling from trees in Florida as storms move in

MIAMI (CBSMiami/AP) — Wildlife officials say they're getting reports of iguanas falling from trees in South Florida as the stormy weather moves in.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission says the lizards may be trying to find shelter from the storms.

Commission spokesman Rob Klepper said in a statement that people should leave the iguanas alone if they see them on the ground.

"Under normal circumstances, FWC would not advise handling an iguana, but because of the cold weather conditions, we ask people to please leave them alone if they are spotted on the ground and contact us if there is a concern for their safety," Klepper said.

Iguanas are native to Central and South America but they have been established in South Florida since the 1960s.

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Expert warns Floridians to be aware of invasive iguana population

With an invasion of non-native iguanas on the loose in Florida, experts are warning residents to be aware of these reptiles and take steps to protect their homes and yards.

Iguanas are a common sight in South Florida, but their population has exploded in recent years. The animals can grow up to 5 feet long and weigh nearly 20 pounds. They damage buildings, invade gardens and nest in roofs.

They also eat plants, flowers and fruit, which can devastate citrus crops.

While there are no known cases of iguanas transmitting diseases to people or pets, they can inflict painful bites.

So far, the state has been unable to come up with a plan to get rid of the iguanas, which are listed as a species of concern by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).

Residents are urged to secure their homes and yards by sealing off potential entry points and using deterrents such as loud noises or repellents.