Missing iguana Rexi found alive after five-day search in Järvenpää
A one-and-a-half-meter-long iguana named Rexi, missing for over five days, has been found alive in Järvenpää. The reptile was discovered in the yard of a neighbor, Anni Koskela, who described the find as astonishing, noting that the lizard was in good condition (Iltalehti).
Rexi’s owner, Aki Peltokoski, confirmed that the iguana returned home on Monday evening "a little chilled and thinner" after its ordeal. He described the lizard’s journey as difficult, explaining that it had likely spent nights soaked in cold conditions (Iltalehti, Yle).
The iguana was located behind a neighbor’s shed by a search dog named Runo. Peltokoski credited the efforts of Jenna Timonen, Nea Rosenlund, and the dog for the successful recovery. He expressed gratitude for the community’s support, stating that around 20–30 people, including children and adults, had joined the search (Iltalehti, Yle).
A Close Call for an Elderly Reptile
Rexi, estimated to be over 13 years old, had been suffering from age-related ailments. Peltokoski had initially feared the worst, suggesting the iguana might have wandered off to die. He had previously shared on Facebook that Rexi had enjoyed a good life, spending much of its recent time lounging on the backyard terrace (Iltalehti).
The search began after Rexi went missing last Wednesday, with Peltokoski first reporting the disappearance to Iltalehti on Friday. At the time, he believed the iguana had not strayed far, estimating it would be found within 25–50 meters of its home. Despite initial concerns, the community’s efforts paid off when Runo the dog tracked down the reptile (Yle).