Thirteen live, zip-tied iguanas were found in the back of a man's truck during a traffic stop in central Florida, according to reports. The reptiles were discovered after Florida Highway Patrol troopers pulled over 32-year-old Rendon Casildo-Acdiel in Winter Haven, Florida, early Thursday morning, as reported by FOX 13 News. Winter Haven is located approximately 50 miles east of Tampa.
Details of the Traffic Stop
Casildo-Acdiel was stopped because his trailer lacked a license plate light, the state highway patrol told FOX 13. However, after searching his truck and trailer, troopers found 13 live iguanas along with five containers of iced tilapia. Photographs from the scene depict a haphazard pile of iguanas with their feet zip-tied in the back of a truck. The iguanas were subsequently taken to a local shelter.
Arrest and Charges
Casildo-Acdiel was arrested and now faces a charge of driving with a suspended license, according to FOX 13. It remains unclear if he will face additional charges related to the reptiles. He told troopers he was visiting Florida to obtain coconuts from Miami and fish from Polk County before heading back to North Carolina. It is unclear if Casildo-Acdiel has obtained an attorney; The Independent was unable to identify his attorney for comment.
Iguanas as Invasive Species
Iguanas are not native to Florida and are considered an invasive species, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. It is illegal to introduce nonnative species into the state. Iguanas are often spotted falling from trees during cold spells in Florida, as low temperatures can temporarily paralyze them. The reptiles can also bite both people and pets; their bite wounds often require stitches, and bacteria found in iguanas' mouths can sometimes cause severe infections, according to Critter Control.
Permit Requirements
A permit is required to possess live captured green iguanas for eradication and control purposes, and those who wish to keep iguanas as pets must also obtain a permit through the state. The Independent has contacted the Florida Highway Patrol and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission for comment.
