4 foot lizard dumped on doorstep in Acton Green
Eddie Lizzard has been rehoused in Brighton. Picture: RSPCA
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January 19, 2023
Residents of Antrobus Road in Acton Green received an unusual surprise when they found a four foot long iguana on their doorstep.
The green lizard had been abandoned in a plastic box on a cold night with just a blanket and towel inside the box for warmth.
They called the RSPCA so animal rescue officer Jade Guthrie was able to collect the reptile to take him to specialist facilities. He has been nicknamed Eddie Lizzard by the expert exotic animal team at RSPCA Brighton, where he is now being housed.
Green iguanas come from the Caribbean and Central and South America, making it very difficult to look after iguanas properly here in the UK. They can also typically live up to 15 years old and grow to 1.5m long. Those who want to have one as a pet have a lot to consider in how they will properly meet their needs, such as providing appropriate light, heat, climbing space, moisture levels and a suitable diet.
Jade said: “This beautiful reptile is incredibly lucky to be alive.
“Iguanas are endothermic which means they need warmth to survive, so when they are kept in this country they require a heat lamp. Being dumped in the cold in a box with just a blanket is totally unacceptable - had he not been found he would have been at death’s door before long.
“I’m keen to hear from anyone who might have some information about this iguana. They can contact me in confidence on 0300 123 8018.
“We know times are tough right now - but abandoning an animal is never acceptable. The RSPCA has launched a new cost of living hub to signpost owners to the lifelines which are available right now as prices rise, including specific advice for exotic animals like this iguana.”
Luckily, the specialist reptile rescue team at RSPCA Brighton in West Sussex were able to take Eddie Lizzard in, but sadly his arrival is not unusual. The centre currently has ten other iguanas looking for homes, all of which were abandoned, unwanted or neglected - and the charity is concerned the rising cost of living, and energy, could be a factor.
RSPCA Brighton Branch reptile rescue is the only dedicated reptile rescue within the RSPCA nationally. The team takes in reptiles in need from all over the country - from animals rescued by the RSPCA's inspectors, to stow-aways from abroad, and from strays to neglected animals. Their aim is to rescue, rehabilitate and rehome each exotic animal into the best possible environments to meet their needs.
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