Green, or common, Iguana are among the largest lizards in the Americas, averaging around 6.5 feet long and weighing about 11 pounds.

Green Iguanas have long been a controversial pet due to the availability for impulse purchase through improper channels and the lack of education about the animal and its requirements. However, when owners are equipped with the proper care information and necessary products, iguanas can be one of the most rewarding pet reptiles. Iguanas require a large amount of space to be active and adults can grow up to 6 feet. UVB lighting and proper supplementation are required to keep them healthy. As Iguana mature they can become aggressive, so regular handling is necessary to keep them tamed. A realistic habitat size even for baby iguanas is a 40 gallon habitat to allow room for activity and movement. They love to climb and bask and require décor to accommodate this activity. Iguanas provided with a proper basking spot will spend a good part of their day there soaking up the heat and UV light. A large food dish filled with “salad” will always be appreciated. Keep humidity levels in a tropical range of 50-90% by using moisture-absorbing substrates such as bark and regular misting. Interaction with these reptiles is also a key to keeping them as pets. Iguana often end up spending more time out of their habitats with their pet parents as they grow up.