As we navigated the winding waterway, our eyes were keenly attuned to the dense foliage draping the branches overhead, searching for the elusive prehistoric creatures. Contrary to expectations of exploring Jurassic Park or dense South American jungles, our pursuit was set in a quiet waterfront neighborhood in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
The vibrant greenery along the water’s edge had evolved into dense thickets, where vines intertwined with trees and bushes, sometimes obstructing our path. This natural camouflage provided ample cover for the iguanas we sought. Our strategy hinged on spotting these cold-blooded reptiles basking on rocks or branches.
“I’ve spotted one,” Brett Isackson, my guide, announced in a hushed tone. “A sizable iguana in those overhanging branches.”
Isackson used a laser pointer to highlight the camouflaged iguana. As I followed the moving light, I identified the reptile and took aim with the rifle. Despite hitting the target directly, it took several more shots before the resilient iguana fell from its perch.