Habitat of the Giant Green Iguana

Giant Green Iguanas live up to their name, with males growing in excess of 6 feet in length. Females, however, are smaller and require substantial enclosures if kept as pets. Giant Green Iguanas can live to be 15-20 years old. In the wild, they inhabit Central and South America, but due to migration and the pet trade are now also found in parts of North America. Like many animals, iguanas are sensitive to their habitats and are particular about their environments in both the wild and in captivity.

  1. Environment

    • In the wild, Giant Green Iguanas are found in most countries in South and Central America and Mexico and have even been found in California, Florida and Hawaii. They prefer areas with plenty of foliage and plant life --- ideally rainforest areas. The rainforest provides a perfect environment, as it is consistently warm and humid. In other areas where there is no rainforest, these iguanas live in habitats where they are guaranteed similarly warm temperatures, such as coastal areas of Mexico where the warm currents bring humid air on shore. Owners who keep iguanas as pets must replicate these conditions; the tank or aquarium should contain a large amount of plant life and be kept warm and moist.

    Temperature and Humidity

    • Iguanas are cold blooded and so need to bask in the heat before becoming active. In captivity, it is important to make sure their enclosure is kept at a suitable heat level. Heat lamps can be used to replicate the specific temperature conditions required in captivity. A water atomizer can create humidity. During the day, the temperature should be 25-30 degrees Celsius (80-85 Fahrenheit), with a basking area of 32-35 Celsius (90-95 Fahrenheit). The basking area should have a large, flat rock for the iguana. At night, the temperature should be reduced slightly to 20-25 Celsius (75 Fahrenheit). Humidity needs to be maintained between 70-80 percent.

    Foods

    • Iguana's are entirely herbivores and eat no meat. Eggs and dairy should never be fed to a captive Iguana. In the wild, iguanas eat whatever fruit, berries, leaves or grasses are available to them. Leaves are a favorite food, as iguanas spend a lot of time above ground level. Food is an essential element for an Iguana choosing its territory

    Water

    • Finding water sources in the rainforest is not difficult because all the water iguanas need can be found in puddles on leaves or on the ground. In captivity, a water bowl should be provided in the aquarium. The Iguana should also be bathed regularly to prevent skin problems.