Miami Resort Becomes a Maternity Ward for Invasive Iguana
MIAMI, FL - MARCH 13: An iguana is seen as the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission continues its efforts to try and control the invasive species in Miami, Florida. The commission has teams of people that are trying to eliminate the reptiles by killing them, which would prevent them from eating native plants and wildlife as well as disturbing the natural Florida habitat that they are living in. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
I’ll be sure to try and not think about this the next time I’m hanging out at a Miami resort. It’s nice to relax and getaway once in a while. You know, relax by yourself at the pool, and enjoy some of the resort’s amenities. I didn’t think Iguanas were one of them though.
According to the New York Post, that’s exactly what happened at a Miami resort. Imagine getting ready to hit the water slide, when suddenly, you find out there’s a female iguana just casually laying eggs on the slide like it’s no big thing.
DELRAY BEACH, FLORIDA – MARCH 27: An iguana populates the Wakodahatchee Wetlands on March 27, 2024 in Delray Beach, Florida. The warmer climate found in the southern United States provides a welcome habitat for a wide assortment of aquatic birds and other wildlife. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)
Miami Resort Pool:
Turns out, this wasn’t an isolated incident. Experts with Humane Iguana Control say that these critters are getting pretty creative with their nesting spots. Pools, artificial turf, even cars… Nowhere is off-limits during iguana breeding season, which goes from February to March in South Florida. So I guess book your Florida resort trip accordingly.
So, what’s the big deal, you ask? Well, these iguanas ain’t just hanging out minding their own business. These guys are causing some serious trouble. Imagine finding 30 iguana eggs in your resort pool. Yeah, that’s what Humane Iguana Control had to deal with. And get this… They say one iguana can drop up to 70 eggs a year! That’s a lot of potential troublemakers to worry about.
Miami Resort Relaxation:
But it’s not just about eggs in weird places. These iguanas are wrecking personal property left and right. And don’t even think about confronting them. They’re packing some serious heat like sharp nails, teeth, and tails that can whip you at 30 mph. Plus, they are like walking germ factories, carrying ticks, mites, and even salmonella. Gross.
So, what to do if you spot one of these invasive dudes during your next Miami resort trip? Simple, call the pros and steer clear. Leave it to the pros. I mean you’re on vacation, right?
How To Enjoy The Amenities And Pools Of Southwest Florida Resorts Without Getting A Room
It’s an often repeated adage because it’s true. We live where others come to vacation. Much of it has to do with the Southwest Florida resorts that we have. The Inn on Fifth and The Ritz Carlton both received worldwide recognition by making Forbes ‘Most Outstanding’ List‘. The list of amazing resorts here is about to grow with the addition of Margaritaville on Fort Myers Beach and the Great Wolf Lodge being built in Naples. Margaritaville looks to have it’s own private section of gulf shore beach that’s accessed via a skywalk over Estero Blvd. The Great Wolf Lodge is building an indoor water park.
Can You Visit Southwest Florida Resorts Without Getting A Room?
Simple answer, yes. But it’s not cheap. I will admit that I may have visited the water park at the Coconut Point Hyatt without paying or staying at a room. They have an amazing lazy river there. Alas, the trick I used no longer works. So how do you hit the waterpark at the Hyatt or lounge poolside with that view atop the Luminary? It’s called a day pass. I’ve even seen the term ‘daycation’. You go online and book your pass at the chosen resort and then show your receipt when you get there. The price covers parking, sometimes event valet, and gives you access to the amenities that are normally reserved for guests. Access to the pools, restaurants, activities, and fitness centers. Some even have organized yoga classes and such.
The rates aren’t cheap. They are, however, a lot less than getting a room. Since most of ya’ll are only going there to take pictures of yourself for your Insta, these rates may suit you.
Prices are per adult person. Kids are usually around half as much.
Meet Budman, dynamic host of Marconi Award winning radio station WXKB's WiLD Bunch Morning Show, on B1039. Budman likes to write about funny news, a good Florida man story, stupid criminals or anything involving a superhero. Budman, a comic book and pop culture enthusiast, even named his daughter Kara Zor-El, after Supergirl. His only child is his true passion beyond the mic. Being a dad is his favorite role. Budman, a true family man, balances his love for radio with quality time spent with loved ones and his trusty dogs.
