Iguanas
The scientific name is
Iguana iguana, and they come from Mexico, Central and South America.
There are iguana farms in El Salvador. They can grow up to 6 feet in males,
but the average adult is 4-5 feet. Some iguanas become very tame, while
some become shy or nasty. Babies can be kept together. Properly cared for,
they are hardy and long lived and not disease prone. They have high calcium
requirements as youths. Males are usually larger, with larger dorsal spines
and larger scales below the ear opening. They have enlarged femoral pores
and are usually more colorful than females. Babies should be carefully probe
sexed.
This big iguana belongs to Petberry's, Houston, Tx.
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They should be fed fruits and vegetables
such as papaya, melon, bananas, tomatoes, yellow squash, broccoli, romaine,
tofu, etc. Get a good book about iguanas that covers diet more thoroughly.
Youngsters should have vitamin/mineral supplement every other feeding. Adults
should be given calcium only every 10-14 days.
He is 3-4 feet long.
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A 20 gallon tank is minimum and as they grow they need a 55 gallon when
2-1/2 feet. Larger adults need custom enclosures. Use substrate of rabbit
pellets, and landscape and create basking areas with rocks, driftwood, cork
bark slabs and branches. Bromeliad plants also enhance their environment.
Provide a shallow pan of water for drinking and soaking. Mist occasionally
to help shedding.
Day temperature should be 80-90 with nights 68-78. Expose to natural sunlight
or provide full spectrum UV lights to help synthesize Vitamin D-3 and calcium
absorption.
They must have the proper temperature to digest food. They must have a basking
temperature of 92-98. Under the tank heating pads or hot rocks are a good
source of heat. The animal must be able to 'get away' from the heat source
or it may cook.
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