People in shock after someone dumped this giant pet on family's doorstep

Fancy opening the door to leave your house just to find a giant lizard on your porch? This is exactly what happened to a Brighton-based household that discovered a ‘gift’ of an abandoned green iguana in a box on the way out.

Luckily, they weren't put off by the sheer size of the heat-loving animal but rescued it from the freezing cold and handed it to the RSPCA.

‘This beautiful reptile is incredibly lucky to be alive’

A huge iguana was handed to the RSPCA after it was found dumped on a West London doorstep in freezing temperatures. The unwanted reptile was recovered by those living at the address it was abandoned on January 16.

Iguanas are endothermic which means they need warmth to survive. When kept in the UK, they require a heat lamp. Leaving this exotic pet in a box with just a blanket outside in the winter was the cruellest thing its owner could have done.

If not found early, this green beauty would face imminent death.

An RSPCA spokesperson said:

This beautiful reptile is incredibly lucky to be alive.

The gorgeous 1.2m long lizard - who has since been named Eddie Lizzard - now spends its days relaxing at RSPCA Brighton.

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Green iguanas come from the Caribbean and Central and South America, making them very difficult to look after in the UK climate. 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.

Not the only abandoned reptile

The RSPCA has opened an investigation in a bid to locate Eddie’s irresponsible owner. The charity is keen to hear from anyone who might have some information about this iguana.

The animal welfare organisation 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 Eddie.

Tragically, Eddie isn’t the only abandoned iguana at the facility - he has 10 other jilted, scaly pals to rub shoulders with. All of the others were also abandoned, unwanted or neglected.

RSPCA Brighton branch is the only dedicated reptile rescue within the RSPCA in the UK. The team takes in these needy exotic creatures from all over the country - from animals rescued by the inspectors to stowaways from abroad, and from strays to neglected pets. Their aim is to rescue, rehabilitate and rehome each one into the best possible environment.

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Sources used:

- My London: 'Giant 4ft iguana left dumped in a box in freezing temperatures on Hounslow doorstep'