How did iguanas get to Florida?

The green iguana, Iguana iguana, is native to Central and South America. The species is believed to have first arrived in Florida in the 1960s as a result of the pet trade. In the 1990s, Hurricane Andrew is thought to have caused significant damage to iguana habitats in South Florida, leading to widespread release or escape of captive individuals who then established breeding populations in the wild. In addition, some researchers suggest that the increase in iguana populations in Florida may also have been the result of intentional releases by pet owners and deliberate illegal releases by individuals involved in the live animal black market. The combination of suitable climatic conditions, abundant vegetation, and lack of natural predators contributed to the successful establishment and subsequent population growth of green iguanas in Florida. Today, it is well-established in the southern part of the state, posing considerable ecological and economic challenges by damaging habitats and crops.