Description: Green iguanas are large and can grow up to 6 feet in length. Despite their name, green iguanas can vary greatly in color but generally range from green to brown. They may also have pink, orange, or blue coloration. They often have dark rings around the tail and they have very long crest spines and large dewlaps.

Distribution: The native range of green iguanas extends from southern Mexico into Brazil, however green iguanas have also been introduced into many countries in which they are not native. The US now has invasive iguana populations in southern Florida, the Florida Keys, and Texas.

Habitat: Green iguanas are arboreal animals that utilize a variety of habitats. Since they are so wide spread, habitat preferences may be different depending on the region. Like other iguanas, this species is primarily an herbivore and feeds on a variety of vegetation.

The green iguana is the most well-known of the iguana species as it is commonly kept as a pet in the United States and other countries. Like other iguanas, the green iguana is charismatic and many people are drawn to its bright colors and personality. Many countries where the green iguana is native have begun farming practices to satisfy the demand for this species in the pet trade. Although some people keep green iguanas as pets, there are often issues associated with keeping this species in captivity. Like all iguanas, green iguanas are primarily herbivores which require a varied diet of plant matter. Additionally, iguanas are cold-blooded animals which cannot regulate their temperature without heat from the environment. This means that iguana enclosures must be kept within a specific temperature range since captive animals are unable to change their surroundings depending on their needs. Growing up to lengths of 5 feet, these animals who are often purchased as hatchlings will become very large and require adequate housing with space to move and climb as they would in the wild. These large adults can be hard to handle and have strong jaws and sharp claws.

Wild populations of green iguanas in the United States have invaded certain areas. These iguanas may have been introduced through the pet trade or through transport on boats but are now reproducing in the wild. Invasive green iguanas pose many issues to native habitat and wildlife. Since iguanas are herbivores, they consume native vegetation endangering both plant communities and competing with the native wildlife that utilize the same habitat and resources.

For more information on green iguanas and pet iguanas, please contact your local herpetological society or iguana rescue.

Or see our past news story on green iguanas by clicking here.

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