Finding iguana droppings in your pool is more than a nuisance. It is a health hazard. Iguanas are drawn to water, and they regularly defecate in and around swimming pools. The droppings carry bacteria that can make your family and pets sick. Here is what every Southwest Florida pool owner needs to know.
Why Iguanas Use Your Pool Area
Iguanas are attracted to water. They drink from pools, bask on pool decks to absorb heat, and use the surrounding area as a latrine. Pool decks offer flat, warm surfaces that are perfect for sunbathing. If you have iguanas on your property, your pool is one of their favorite spots.
Health Risks of Iguana Droppings in Pool Water
Iguana feces carry several pathogens that can survive in pool water:
- Salmonella: The most common and serious risk. Salmonella bacteria from iguana droppings can survive in chlorinated water if the chlorine level is not high enough. Symptoms in humans include diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps. Children, elderly individuals, and people with weakened immune systems are at highest risk.
- E. coli: Iguana droppings can introduce E. coli bacteria into pool water, causing gastrointestinal illness.
- Other bacteria: Iguana waste can carry a variety of bacteria and parasites that contaminate water and pool deck surfaces.
Risks for Children and Pets
Children are more likely to accidentally swallow pool water while swimming. They also play on pool decks where droppings may be present. Dogs that drink from the pool or lick pool deck surfaces are also at risk. Salmonella from iguana droppings can cause serious illness in both children and pets.
What to Do If You Find Iguana Droppings in Your Pool
- Remove the droppings: Use a pool net to scoop out any visible waste. Do not let children or pets near the pool until it is cleaned.
- Shock the pool: Add a pool shock treatment to raise the chlorine level and kill bacteria. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the correct dosage.
- Run the filter: Keep the pool filter running for at least 24 hours to circulate and filter the treated water.
- Test the water: Before allowing anyone to swim, test the pool water to ensure chlorine and pH levels are safe.
- Clean the deck: Use a bleach solution to clean any droppings from the pool deck. Wear gloves and dispose of waste properly.
Why Cleaning the Pool Is Not Enough
Shocking the pool and cleaning the deck treats the symptoms, not the cause. If iguanas are still on your property, the droppings will return. Every day iguanas have access to your pool, the health risk continues. The only permanent solution is to remove the iguanas from your property.
Stop Iguanas from Using Your Pool
Professional iguana removal eliminates the source of the problem. Rocky's removes iguanas using FWC-permitted methods, destroys burrows that serve as nesting sites, and implements ongoing suppression to prevent iguanas from returning. Once the iguana population is cleared, your pool stays clean and the health risk is gone.
Serving Naples, Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Bonita Springs, Estero, Port Royal, Sanibel, and Captiva. Free property inspections. Call (239) 922-5992 or visit iguanaswfl.com.