Welcome to our colorful exploration of one of nature’s most fascinating reptiles: the iguana! Often admired for their unique appearance and captivating behaviors, iguanas are more than just a pretty face in the animal kingdom. In this blog, we’ll uncover a variety of fun facts about iguanas that highlight their intriguing characteristics, diverse habitats, and the roles they play in their ecosystems. Whether you’re a reptile enthusiast or simply curious about these remarkable creatures, there’s plenty to learn and enjoy. So, let’s dive into the vibrant world of iguanas and discover what makes them truly special!
Green iguanas are 6.5 feet tall, weighing 10-15 lbs.
Some species of Iguana grow very quickly. They can be five times longer and a hundred times heavier in just for twenty-four months.
Average life span in the wild is 20 years; it is much shorter in captivity since many owners do not have the appropriate knowledge to take care of iguanas.
Iguanas can stay under water for 28 minutes.
Iguanas must be housed in cages which are at least 6 feet high and 12 feet wide and deep. The cages must be equipped with ultra violet light facility and a temperature of 70 – 80 ºC that helps them in digesting food.
These lizards are herbivores and hence should be fed with vegetarian diet only. They also draw water out of the food they eat, and hence can be fed with green beans, melons and strawberries. No animal protein supplements must be given.
Green iguanas are strict vegetarians. They do not eat, nor should they be fed, any animal protein. Some wild species do eat insects, however.
Rhubarb is poisonous to iguanas.
Iguanas love a variety of fruits and greens, including squash, strawberries, melons, green beans, peppers and watercress.
Like all animals, iguanas also show signs of aggression during mating season. During this period, they should be left along with their female partners until the mating season gets over.
Stuffed toys are also put inside the cages to play. They are social animals after all and like to nibble and chew whatever comes their way.
Small children should not be allowed near them as this reptile has sharp teeth and claws which might be used for self defense.
Iguanas are the largest in the lizard family. They laying eggs and are cold-blooded like many other reptiles.
Iguanas can drop 40 feet from a tree onto solid ground without getting hurt.
Airplanes in America collide with an average of 1 iguana every 2 years on runways (according to federal records).
An adult male is larger than its female counterpart and is more aggressive in nature. The stronger males dominate the weaker ones and demarcate their territories indicating their superiority. This is also a reason why these lizards are considered social animals.
Adult male iguanas can become very aggressive during breeding season.
Breeding season lasts about three months.
Female iguanas usually produce eggs, even if there is not a male around.
Iguanas need to be handled every day to keep tame.
If an iguana’s tail is cut off, they can grow another one. Because of their tail’s weak vertebrae, often iguanas break their tail to escape after getting caught.
The tail makes up at least half the body length of an iguana.
Here are some frequently asked questions about iguanas, with detailed answers:
1. What do iguanas eat?
- Detailed Answer:
- Iguanas are primarily herbivores, especially as adults. This means their diet should consist mainly of plant matter.
- Vegetables: The bulk of their diet should be leafy greens like collard greens, mustard greens, dandelion greens, turnip greens, and kale. Avoid iceberg lettuce, as it has minimal nutritional value. Other suitable vegetables include green beans, bell peppers, and squash.
- Fruits: Fruits should be offered in moderation as treats due to their higher sugar content. Berries, mangoes, papayas, and figs are good options.
- Flowers: Edible flowers like hibiscus, dandelions, and nasturtiums can add variety and nutrients.
- Calcium and Vitamin D3: Iguanas require calcium and vitamin D3 supplements to prevent metabolic bone disease (MBD), a common and serious health issue. These supplements are often dusted onto their food.
- Juvenile Diet: Young iguanas may consume small insects in the wild, but in captivity, a strictly vegetarian diet is recommended.
- Avoid: Never feed iguanas animal protein (meat, eggs, dog/cat food), as it can lead to kidney problems. Also, avoid spinach, broccoli, and other cruciferous vegetables in large amounts, as they can interfere with calcium absorption.
- Fresh Water: Constant access to fresh, clean water is essential.
2. How big do iguanas get?
- Detailed Answer:
- Green iguanas, the most common pet iguana, can grow quite large. Adult males can reach 5 to 6 feet in length, including their tail, and weigh up to 20 pounds. Females are typically smaller, reaching 4 to 5 feet.
- The tail makes up a significant portion of their length.
- Growth rate varies depending on genetics, diet, and environment. They grow rapidly during their first few years and continue to grow, albeit at a slower pace, throughout their lives.
- It is very important to consider the adult size of an iguana before obtaining one as a pet. Many people underestimate the size they will reach.
3. What kind of habitat does an iguana need?
- Detailed Answer:
- Iguanas require a large, secure enclosure that mimics their natural tropical habitat.
- Size: A baby iguana can start in a smaller enclosure, but you’ll need to upgrade as it grows. An adult iguana needs a custom-built enclosure or a large room.
- Temperature: They need a basking spot with a temperature of 95-100°F (35-38°C) and an ambient temperature of 80-85°F (27-29°C). Nighttime temperatures can drop to 75-80°F (24-27°C).
- Humidity: Iguanas need high humidity levels, around 70-80%. This can be achieved with misting, humidifiers, or water bowls.
- UVB Lighting: UVB light is crucial for calcium absorption and vitamin D3 synthesis. Provide 10-12 hours of UVB light daily using a reptile-specific UVB bulb.
- UVA Lighting: UVA lighting helps with appetite and behavior.
- Substrate: Suitable substrates include reptile carpet, newspaper, or butcher paper. Avoid loose substrates like sand or wood shavings, as they can be ingested.
- Climbing Branches: Iguanas are arboreal, meaning they like to climb. Provide sturdy branches and shelves for them to explore.
- Hides: Offer hiding spots where they can feel secure.
- Water Source: A large water bowl for soaking and drinking is essential.
4. Are iguanas good pets?
- Detailed Answer:
- Iguanas can be rewarding pets for experienced reptile keepers who are willing to commit to their specific needs.
- Pros:
- They can be intelligent and develop a bond with their owners.
- They can be fascinating to observe.
- They can be trained to some extent.
- Cons:
- They require a significant commitment in terms of time, space, and resources.
- They can be aggressive if not properly socialized.
- They require specialized care, including specific lighting, temperature, and humidity.
- They can carry salmonella, so proper hygiene is essential.
- They have powerful tails, and sharp claws, that can cause injury.
- Considerations:
- Iguanas are not suitable for beginners or children.
- They require a large, long term financial commitment.
- They can live for 15-20 years.
- They require a lot of socialization when young to become a docile adult.
5. How do I tame an iguana?
- Detailed Answer:
- Taming an iguana requires patience, consistency, and gentle handling.
- Start Slow: Begin by spending time near the enclosure, talking to your iguana in a calm voice.
- Hand Feeding: Offer food from your hand to build trust.
- Gentle Touch: Gradually introduce gentle touches and strokes.
- Handling: Once your iguana is comfortable with touch, start handling it for short periods, gradually increasing the duration.
- Consistency: Handle your iguana regularly to maintain its tameness.
- Positive Reinforcement: Use positive reinforcement, such as offering treats, when your iguana behaves well.
- Avoid: Never force handling or make sudden movements, as this can scare your iguana.
- Socialization while young: Young iguanas that are handled often are more likely to be tame adults.
6. What are common iguana health problems?
- Detailed Answer:
- Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD): Caused by calcium and vitamin D3 deficiency, leading to bone deformities and fractures.
- Parasites: Internal and external parasites can cause various health problems.
- Respiratory Infections: Caused by improper temperature and humidity.
- Burns: From hot basking lights or heating elements.
- Dehydration: Due to insufficient water intake or low humidity.
- Kidney Problems: Often caused by a high-protein diet.
- Impaction: Caused by ingesting substrate or other indigestible materials.
- Mouth Rot (Infectious Stomatitis): Bacterial infection of the mouth, often caused by poor hygiene or stress.
- Scale Rot: Fungal or bacterial infections of the scales due to poor sanitation or humidity.
- Salmonella: Iguanas can carry salmonella bacteria, which can cause illness in humans.
7. How do I know if my iguana is sick?
- Detailed Answer:
- Signs of illness in iguanas can be subtle, so it’s essential to observe your pet closely.
- Common Signs:
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy
- Changes in stool or urine
- Swelling or lumps
- Difficulty breathing
- Mouth sores or discharge
- Weight loss
- Abnormal behavior
- Sunken eyes
- Wrinkled skin
- If you notice any of these signs, consult a reptile veterinarian immediately.
8. Do iguanas need to be bathed?
- Detailed Answer:
- Bathing can be beneficial for iguanas, especially for shedding and hydration.
- Warm Water: Use warm water, around 85-90°F (29-32°C).
- Shallow Water: The water should be shallow enough for your iguana to stand comfortably.
- Supervision: Never leave your iguana unattended in the bath.
- Frequency: The frequency of bathing depends on your iguana’s individual needs and the humidity in its enclosure.
- Shedding: Bathing can help loosen shedding skin.
- Hydration: Soaking in water can help prevent dehydration.
- Cleaning: Bathing can help remove dirt and debris.
