Iguanas Kept as Props in Maryland Restaurant Removed

April 2003

PETA got an anonymous call about two iguanas being kept as decorations at a restaurant in Baltimore, Maryland. The complainant reported that the iguanas were being kept in a filthy enclosure and that they appeared ill. We immediately contacted officials at the local animal control bureau asking them to check on the welfare of the iguanas. In addition, we contacted the Baltimore County Health Department to provide information regarding the risk of salmonella contamination associated with keeping reptiles, especially in food-service establishments. Following our complaint, the Health Department investigated and required that the iguanas be removed from the restaurant immediately.

Read more about the problems with keeping reptiles, such as iguanas, in captivity.