Temperatures in the Sunshine State are plummeting to -1°C this week as a ‘polar vortex’ moves through the south.
It’s not just humans that are feeling the chill – some Florida residents are deeply affected by the cold snap.
When temperatures plummet in Florida, the Iguana population suffers. If the mercury hits even 10°C, they can begin falling out of trees, hurting people below.
The cold-blooded animals live in high trees throughout Florida but aren’t used to cold temperatures, meaning they drop when the temperatures do.
Literally.
Floridians have been warned to keep an eye out for fallen Iguanas in the coming days, as many of the creatures just can’t cope.
The lizards can grow up to five feet long – meaning if you happen to be walking by as one drops out of a tree, you could have a serious headache.
The iguanas can survive cold weather – but are unable to function in the frigid temperatures.
They aren’t native to Florida but were introduced to the state as stowaways on cargo ships over the decades.
Biologist and iguana expert Joe Wasilewski said in 2022: ‘It’s going to happen. If it’s in the 50s(F), they’re slow. If it’s in the 40s, they’re on the brink of falling. And if it’s in the 30s, they’re down.’
How to help animals during cold spells
But if you come across a fallen iguana, it’s recommended not to help them, as they can defend themselves if they feel scared.
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To help other animals during cold spells, it’s recommended to leave out bowls of water and peanuts for birds.
If you own rabbits, be sure to move hutches when temperatures reach freezing and begin housing them indoors if temperatures drop below 15C.
Cats should have access to warm spots indoors, and dogs should be kept away from frozen ponds and other bodies of water.
When is the Polar Vortex hitting Florida?
A large low-pressure system is moving across much of the United States now, sending winter storm warnings in Virginia and the mid-Atlantic states.
AccuWeather Lead Long-Range Meteorologist Paul Pastelok said: ‘There is a chance for a frost or freeze late next week as far south as central Florida.’
Temperatures in north Florida will drop to below freezing this week, before warming up briefly and plummeting again this weekend.
What other wildlife in Florida is affected by cold snaps?
It’s not just iguanas who can’t handle the cold. Some sea turtles can be stunned by cold water, causing them to float in shock by the coast.
Another invasive species, the Burmese python, is also known to die from exposure to cold, but some survive by finding shelter.
The most famous animal resident of Florida, alligators, often stop eating and moving altogether if the temperature dips below 21°C.
The gators go dormant, or fall asleep, if temperatures are below 13°C.
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