A routine FedEx package pickup in Memphis, Tennessee, took an unexpected turn when a large iguana escaped its container, startling store employees and leading to a widely shared video of the incident.
Roderick Duncan, the owner of the reptile, was at the FedEx location to retrieve the iguana, which he had shipped due to warm weather conditions. While FedEx permits the domestic shipment of certain harmless reptiles with prior approval and approved packaging, the escape surprised staff who were initially curious about the package's contents.
According to Duncan, employees asked if they could see if the iguana was alive. As he began to open the box, the reptile suddenly emerged, ran across the counter, and caused employees to scatter. One employee reportedly fell during the hasty retreat.
Duncan, who was recording the pickup with his Meta glasses, later reviewed the footage, which captured the chaotic scene. The video gained significant online attention, with millions of views and numerous comments. Duncan noted that some viewers mistakenly believed he had intentionally released the iguana for viral content, a notion he has refuted.
The iguana, named Titan by Duncan, has since settled into its new home and is described as having a calm demeanor. It will share a dedicated pet room with Duncan's other iguana and dog. The incident highlighted the unusual nature of shipping exotic pets and the unpredictable reactions such events can elicit.