Complete Guide to Keeping Green Iguanas Successfully

Understanding Your Green Iguana's Background

The green iguana (Iguana iguana) is an impressive and colourful reptile native to the tropical rainforests of South America and the Caribbean. Known affectionately as the ‘iggie’, these lizards grow rapidly from vibrant emerald hatchlings into large adults measuring 5 to 6 feet. They are sexually dimorphic, with males exhibiting larger size, prominent dorsal spines, and a distinctive dewlap used for territorial displays. Females have finer features with smaller spines, and may show subtle colour changes during the breeding season.

Green iguanas engage in arboreal climbing and basking, requiring spacious and tall enclosures that mimic their natural habitat. Because of their size and potential for defensive behaviour, they are best kept by experienced owners who can safely manage their substantial strength.

For those seeking to find a green iguana, responsible acquisition is crucial. Avoid impulse purchases of hatchlings from unverified sources, as these lizards need lifelong dedication to their care.

Creating the Perfect Environment and Housing

Step 1: Enclosure Design and Size

Green iguanas require a large, custom-built enclosure. Adults should have an enclosure at least 8 feet tall, 6 feet wide, and 4 feet deep, with larger spaces always preferred to support their climbing and basking habits. Sturdy branches and platforms are essential for sleeping, feeding, and basking. Many owners find specially modified wooden garden sheds serve well as a basis for their iguana house.

Step 2: Heating and Lighting

Maintaining appropriate temperature gradients is key to your iguana’s health. Provide a basking spot of around 120°F (49°C) with cooler areas ranging from 75-85°F (24-29°C). Use high wattage combined mercury vapour bulbs that offer both heat and full spectrum UVB lighting, critical for vitamin D and calcium metabolism to prevent bone disease. Replace UVB bulbs every 6-8 months to ensure effectiveness.

Step 3: Humidity and Substrate

Green iguanas thrive in humid environments. Aim for 60-80% daytime humidity with occasional spikes up to 100%. Regular misting or automated systems help maintain these levels. Bark chippings or coconut husk substrates retain moisture and look natural, though easy-to-clean options like plastic turf or newspaper can simplify maintenance. Avoid substrates like sand or gravel that may cause respiratory issues.

Providing a Nutritious and Balanced Diet

Step 1: Herbivorous Diet Essentials

Green iguanas are strict herbivores. Their diet must be rich in leafy greens, vegetables, and some fruit, with twice-weekly shopping trips necessary to provide fresh options. Focus on nutrient-dense greens like collard greens, mustard greens, watercress, kale, endive, and pak choi. Variety is important to avoid nutritional deficiencies.

Step 2: Supplementation and Nutrient Balance

Supplementing calcium and vitamin D is vital along with adequate potassium management to maintain a healthy herbivorous diet. Avoid feeding high-oxalate greens excessively, as they can bind calcium. Treats such as soft fruits add variety but should be given sparingly.

Handling and Behaviour Management

Step 1: Early Handling for Tameness

Begin handling young iguanas gently and consistently to build positive associations with human contact. Offering small treats like apple pieces while handling encourages calm behaviour. This early familiarity helps prevent stress and decreases risk of injury as the lizard matures.

Step 2: Managing Adult and Hormonal Behaviour

Adult males can become territorial and aggressive, especially in the breeding season. Owners should have thick gloves and towels available for safe handling during these times. Consistent handling outside the vivarium helps manage dominant behaviours and establishes trust.

Responsible Acquisition and Conservation Considerations

Green iguanas are seldom bred now in pet settings, mainly due to the care demands and size of adults, with refuge centres often housing unwanted juveniles and adults. Potential owners are encouraged to contact recognised reptile rescue organisations to provide a second chance home for these incredible reptiles, promoting responsible ownership rather than impulse buying hatchlings from uncertain sources.

Maintaining an iguana requires a significant commitment to providing specialised housing, nutritional needs, and behavioural understanding. It is a rewarding challenge for experienced keepers ready to offer a lifelong home to these fascinating reptiles.