The iguana is a classification within the Iguanidae animal family. It consists of two species: the common iguana, also known as the green iguana, and the Lesser Antillean iguana. The green iguana is the species that is commonly bought as a pet.
Life cycle of the Green Iguana
The mating season for the green iguana lasts for a few weeks during the early part of the dry season. Males become very aggressive during this period. This is in stark contrast to their normal routine, which typically consists of resting. Females tend to gather in areas that are occupied by the largest males.
After mating, female iguanas carry the fertilized eggs for two months. During the second half of the dry season, female iguanas lay a clutch of eggs, which generally contains 12 to 30 eggs. The eggs remain in the nest for about 90 days before they hatch. This occurs before the start of the rainy season.
The newly hatched iguanas are about one inch in length. They emerge from the nest and enter the surrounding foliage. Most iguanas mature by 16 months. The iguana lifespan usually covers 20 years.
Providing Adequate Conditions in Captivity
The green iguana is a cold-blooded animal, which means its body temperature matches that of its environment. It is very important to have an iguana enclosure that has different temperature zones. There should be a basking area that has a temperature between 85 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit and a cool area that is 75-85 degrees Fahrenheit. The night time temperature shouldn’t drop below 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
The green iguana’s natural habitat is very humid. Misting the iguana with water or placing a dish of water in the enclosure will help maintain an adequate humidity level. Improper temperature and humidity can put strain on the iguana and leave it susceptible to diseases that reduce the iguana lifespan.
Make Sure the Lighting is Right
One of the problems that reduce the lifespan of the iguana is the lack of UVB rays from the sun. UVB is required to convert vitamin D into its active form. A full spectrum 5% UVB light bulb is generally recommended for iguana enclosures. The light should be on for about 12 hours a day so that the iguana can absorb enough UVB rays. A lack of UVB light can lead to Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD).
A Proper Diet
Another factor which leads to MBD is the lack of calcium in the diet. Green iguanas are herbivores and generally eat leafy greens, carrots, beans, and parsley. Foods such as spinach and beets tend to bind calcium and shouldn’t be given on a regular basis.
The iguana lifespan can be greatly extended by providing the right type of enclosure, light, and diet.
Reference:
“Green Iguana.” – Smithsonian National Zoological Park
Woodward, Steve. “Green Iguana Care Sheet.”