Green iguana FAQs
What are they and where do they come from?
Green iguanas can be found throughout Central and South America and are one of the most popular larger lizards kept in captivity. They are commonly referred to as the green or red iguana and are scientifically referred to as ‘Iguana iguana’.
How big are they?
A fully grown green iguana can reach sizes as large as 4-5 feet in length.
How long do they live?
They are capable of living anywhere between 15 and 20+ years.
What kind of tank do I need?
Growing up to five feet or larger, these animals will need to be housed in a large enclosure. New hatchlings and younger iguanas will need a terrarium that is large enough to support their large size.
What sort of heat does it need?
Your green iguana is a tropical animal, meaning it will require strong heating. A 5.0 UV bulb is ideal for providing Green Iguanas with the vital rays that they require. Green iguana temperatures: daytime – 80-85 degrees, nighttime – 75-80 degrees, basking spot – 95-100 degrees Fahrenheit. These particular reptiles do not require a high humidity environment.
What sort of light does it need?
UVB lighting is highly important to the green iguana, to allow them to process calcium. In the absence of UVB lighting they will develop highly dangerous health issues, such as Metabolic Bone Disease.
UVB lighting, such as the Zoo Med Reptisun 5.0 UVB should be turned off at night but provide 10-12 hours per day of UVB exposure to your Green Iguana.
What else do I need in my tank?
Calcium, such as the Exo Terra Calcium +D3 Supplements are an essential addition to their diet and should be added to food as directed. This will allow your reptile to avoid calcium deficiency.
What does it eat?
Although they enjoy a varied green diet they do enjoy the occasional treat such as the Lucky Reptile Fruit Mix. For an adult-sized Iguana, the Zoo Med Natural Adult Iguana Food includes everything required to preserve long term health and nutrition.
What are the positives about green iguanas?
Green iguanas are highly popular as their appearance is unique and aesthetically pleasing, and are affectionately thought of to look like mini-dinosaurs.
As a larger pet they are considered challenging, with strong characters. However, they are known to be tame when handled regularly.
What are the negatives about green iguanas?
They are very large and powerful animals and should not be kept by novices.