Herp Nutrition

If you are considering getting an iguana, there are many different types to choose from. Although green iguanas are the most common, cyclura iguanas can also make great pets.

When trying to decide between the two, there are few things you need to know about each. Green iguanas and cyclura iguanas each have a couple of distinct characteristics that can help you decide one way or other.

Physical Characteristics

Green iguanas will grow very quickly and can become rather long. The size of the tank will not affect how large green iguanas will grow, but the normal length is about between five and six feet long. As you can see, an iguana will take up almost as much space as another person in your house. Cyclura iguanas will not usually grow as long as green iguanas, but they can weight up to twice as much. Consider this fact when you are constructing an enclosure.

Diet

Green iguanas and cyclura iguanas eat pretty much the same diet. Greens should be about eighty percent of the overall daily diet, with an occasional piece of broccoli or fruit thrown in. Cyclura iguanas need a small amount of protein each month, such as a water soaked piece of dog food or some superworms. The amount of protein cyclura iguanas need is often a subject of debate. Check with a veterinarian who is familiar with iguanas and other reptiles to gather the correct information.

Habitat

Green iguanas love to climb and the higher, the better. Cyclura iguanas will climb as well, but usually not as high or as often. You will need to provide a specific climbing area for green iguanas but cyclura iguanas will require much less of an area specifically designed for climbing. Both the green iguanas and the cyclura iguanas require sunlight so their bodies can absorb the vitamin D3 from the sun rays. This particular vitamin will assist the iguanas in absorbing calcium from their diet. Be sure your iguanas get plenty of outdoor exposure. Full spectrum lights do not accomplish in hours, what a few moments of sun will do.

Training

Both the green iguanas and the cyclura iguanas can be tamed, but it does require time and effort on your part. Many people feel green iguanas are somewhat easier to train, however there are certain iguanas that just don’t want to be. Cyclura iguanas can become lifelong companions through constant training and attention for the first two years. Be sure to choose your baby iguana wisely. A baby iguana that is very flighty will usually be harder to train than a more laid back reptile.

When choosing between green iguanas and cyclura iguanas, there are benefits to both types. Decide what iguana really appeals to you. Make sure you are ready to handle the responsibility of owning this type of reptile. Both the green iguanas and the cyclura iguanas can become a great part of your family, but they will require care and attention on a daily basis.