Del. Department of Agriculture says exotic green iguanas may have been distributed at Apple Scrapple Festival

BRIDGEVILLE, Del. – The Delaware Department of Agriculture says it has learned that green iguanas, which are considered exotic animals in the State of Delaware, may have been distributed to the public as a prize by a private vendor at this year’s Apple Scrapple Festival.

DDA officials work closely with several reptile rehabilitation and rescue groups that can assist with the care and rehoming of these reptiles to those who have experience raising and caring for them.

“We are concerned because this is not a prize many people would look to win at a festival, and we don’t want individuals or families to feel that they have to keep an animal that they are not prepared to care for,” said State Veterinarian Dr. Karen Lopez. “While green iguanas do not require a permit, they are considered exotic, which means they are not native to Delaware. We absolutely do not want people releasing them into the wild. Not only could they cause ecological harm, but the climate and vegetation are unsuitable for their overall health.”

Officials encourage anyone who received a green iguana at the Apple Scrapple Festival and no longer wants it to reach out to the Poultry and Animal Health Section at 302-698-4500.