Green Iguanas as Pets

The mission of the International Iguana Foundation is to actively support conservation, awareness and scientific programs that enhance the survival of wild iguanas and their habitats. We know that our website visitors share our concerns and we appreciate your support. Many of our visitors are also interested in information about keeping green iguanas as pets. We all want pet iguanas to be in good homes and live long, healthy lives.

The purpose of this page is to provide advice and resources towards the proper care of green iguanas.

Before You Buy

Green iguana hatchlings are readily available in many pet stores and make an attractive impulse buy. This is unfortunate for many iguanas and owners because these wild-at-heart animals (iguanas are not domesticated!) grow quickly into adults that can often times become unruly house pets. A captive green iguana may live for over 20 years and an owner’s intent should be to keep the pet throughout the duration of its life.

If you are thinking about buying a green iguana, you’ll want to learn as much as possible about the animal to be sure that you are able and willing to provide needed care. Specific lighting, nutrition and heat sources are essential for successfully raising an iguana and maintaining the health of an adult. Caging requirements expand rapidly as an animal grows and matures. As with dogs and cats, health problems may arise that will require veterinary treatment. You will want to be sure that you have access to a veterinarian that is experienced in green iguana care.

Green Iguana Owners

There are many green iguana owners who are deeply devoted to their iguanas and go to commendable lengths to insure the health of their pets. There are several good books on iguana husbandry as well as websites and chat groups. We’ve provided a few links to get you started.

Care
www.exoticpetvet.net/reptile/greeniguana.html
www.anapsid.org/iguana
www.greenigsociety.org

Books
www.iguana.com
www.anapsid.org/dummies

The Dilemma of the Unwanted Pet

It is very common for iguana owners to become frustrated in 4 years or so and find themselves looking for a home for their pet. Be forewarned that zoos receive many requests to take such animals and are seldom able to do so.

Pet iguanas should never be released to the wild. Nor should they be euthanized by freezing.

Iguanas can sometimes be placed through rescue programs. You can inquire about local rescue programs through your areas’ pet stores, herpetological societies, or AZA accredited zoo. The Green Iguana Society provides a message board for adoptions.

www.greenigsociety.org/rescue