Habitats & Cages for an Iguana

Creating a habitat for a pet iguana can be quite difficult. There are several factors that need to be accounted for and that are important to the health and well-being of the iguana, including space, heat, light, humidity and security. A pet iguana's habitat needs to be similar to that of a wild iguana's habitat so it is vital to be aware of what that entails.

  1. Wild Iguanas

    • Wild iguanas inhabit Mexico, South America and Central America. Because iguanas depend upon warm, moist environments, they mainly inhabit rain forests. However, they can also be found in drier coastal locations. Iguanas are proficient climbers and prefer inhabiting trees.

    Space

    • Iguanas grow continuously and quickly. According to the Green Iguana Society, your pet iguana will outgrow a 55-gallon aquarium during its first year and will reach its adult size as soon as two and a half years. Therefore you will need to plan ahead and purchase or create a large environment for your iguana. Your iguana's cage should be twice as long as your iguana and should be a minimum of 6 feet in height, according to the Green Iguana Society.

    Heat and Humidity

    • According to petiguanacare.com, iguanas do not have a natural ability to control their body temperature. The temperature of an iguana's habitat should be between 75 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Iguanas also need a basking spot with a temperature between 90 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit. Both can be accomplished with radiant heaters and heating lamps. It is a good idea to keep a thermometer in the cage so that you are aware of any drop in temperature. Humidity levels should be at 65 percent to 75 percent. If the humidity is not at this level, the iguana could suffer from dehydration. Iguanas do not drink very often because they are used to humid environments.

    Lighting

    • In order to survive, iguanas need a source of UVA and UVB light. In addition to getting a special light from a pet store, you should allow your iguana to bask outside in the real sunlight. Go outside with your iguana, but be sure and watch it carefully so it doesn't escape or get injured.

    Security

    • Make sure your iguana's habitat is safe and secure. Do not put any sharp objects in the iguana's habitat, or materials that could endanger your iguana such as sand, wood chips or gravel. It is best to use paper without ink for the bottom of your iguana's cage.

    Accessories

    • Iguanas need lots of climbing and hiding spaces in their environment. They are natural climbers and are used to hiding under leaves and in trees in order to protect themselves from predators. They need these elements in order to be happy and healthy. Also make sure their food and water dish is properly filled and clean.