One of the most popular type of lizard would be the Green Iguana. More commonly known as Iguanas, these lizards are very appealing as pet because of their physical characteristics. Yes, most people who found themselves owning and caring for iguanas, especially the beginners, are seduced by the mean appearance of this scaly lizard.
They don’t like being captive that much but for some reason, and it is primarily to the appeal of their mean looks, there are hundreds of thousands of Green Iguanas that are kept captive and bought as pets by many enthusiasts.
If you are one of those who have preferred to own this pet lizard with a striking appearance, and are still a beginner as a pet lizard owner, you should realize that this endeavor will be difficult for you. Green Iguanas aren’t for beginners. Ideally, this species of lizard would best be owned or cared for by a more experienced owner.
There are a few things that you should remember as basic knowledge about Green Iguanas in case you already own one and have no idea what to do with it.
Diet
First of all, Green Iguanas are herbivores. They will eat most leafy vegetables and a variety of fruits. In this regard, you may find it easy to feed and provide nourishment for your pet reptile. Any vegetable or fruits that you’d find in your fridge should be good enough for you pet to eat, so you wouldn’t have much problems looking or coming up with what to feed it.
Iguanas are tropical lizards so you might want to consider this the next time you go to the market to buy vegetables for your pet. With the wide variety of leaves and fruits in the tropics, there is a huge possibility that the natural diet of iguanas are full of nutrients that they require. Some of them may not be available in your fridge so it is very advisable to give your pet a regular dose of vitamins and nutrients that you could purchase from pet shops.
Although they are herbivores, if you give them insects meat, iguanas may eat them. But you must be careful with this. Since they are naturally herbivores, too much protein will cause complications to their health. In fact, if your pet iguana intakes too many protein than they require, they may suffer from liver problems.
Housing
Iguanas grow really long if taken care of properly so it is advisable to have a really big tank for your pet. When it is still a hatchling a 30 to 50 gallon tank would suffice. But as it grows bigger, a custom tank that would house your pet is necessary.
The ideal size in terms of housing for an iguana would be 11/1 its total length, the width of the tank should be equivalent to 2/3 the length of the lizard and the height should be equivalent to its length. This is the ideal minimum size of the green iguana’s tank. It could be bigger if you could afford it or if you have a space for it. But definitely, a high tank is good for them since they like to climb things.
The substrate, since iguanas are tropical lizards, should be able to absorb moisture and could be wet as preferred by iguanas. Proper heating should also be provided in order for the lizard to digest its food properly.
Lighting
The lighting in the tank of your pet lizard’s purpose is simply to simulate the tropical lighting. There are myths saying that a certain type of light will provide your iguana vitamins that will help it absorb calcium. Although it is true, you will require at least 8 of these lights a few inches away from the lizard for the light to be effective.
Never put its tank under the sun. The sun’s heat could raise the temperature inside the tank that may cause your pet to get dehydrated and die.
Health
Iguanas may acquire diseases and illnesses as well although if it was raised properly, it may be able to avoid them.
The most common killer of iguanas would be kidney failure. If you do own one, you should be sensitive to it and be aware of the changes in its habits and activities. IF you see something out of the ordinary, it would be best to observe your pet closely. On the very firs sign of weakness, you should take your pet iguana to a qualified vet for treatment.