8.29.24 McCormick Nature Area (Iguana), Chicago, IL

Please be aware that this post is about an escaped/released and critically injured domestic animal who did not survive.

We spotted this iguana in the tree on the way back to our car. We struggled to find the proper people to connect to about this amazing animal. Chicago 311 and Animal Control would not answer their phones so we contacted DuPage Wildlife Conservation Center (Formerly Willowbrook Wildlife Center). They texted my father a list of places who might help. We were able to connect to Jessica from Chicagoland Exotic Animal Rescue (CLEAR). They are a 501c3 not-for-profit and "100% donation based and volunteerism helps them support more and more critters." Jessica talked us through how to safely capture and transport the iguana to their facility in Skokie, IL. The Iguana had likely been a pet. It had eaten a sock, which was lodged in its intestine. CLEAR updated us soon after we dropped it off that the iguana had been euthanized to avoid a risky surgery and uncertain recovery. We are very sad that this animal didn't survive and we hope that we were able to ease its suffering to some extent. We are extremely grateful to CLEAR for their patience and compassion and hope to volunteer with them in the future.

PLEASE DO NOT RELEASE PETS INTO THE WILD OR PUBLIC PARKS. The Anti-Cruelty Society has resources and advice for surrendering your pet if you are no longer able to care for it.

--Written by Ima and her family