If this is the first time you’ll be caring for an iguana, then it is probably best to familiarize yourself with all the anatomy and behaviours of an iguana. It is going to be easier to tell when there’s something wrong with your new pet reptile by educating yourself. These are a few basic iguana facts you should know.
Iguanas Require Heat and UV Light
Iguanas are reptiles and they require a consistent supply of Ultra and heat violet rays to stay healthy. Iguanas won’t have the ability to function in habitat using a temperature which is lower than 79 degrees.
Ultra violet rays are necessary so the iguana is able to metabolize calcium and other minerals. Without Ultra violet rays, your iguana will most likely encounter bone mineral disorders that result in their death.
animal removal company Iguana Behavioral Characteristics
Iguanas can appear to be threatened and when you don’t observe their mannerisms and behavior you may get bitten or hit by its tail. Unlike cats and dogs, a lot will not be vocalized by iguanas so be cautious especially if the iguana hasn’t been tamed.
Overexpose him or don’t over handle him, when you bring your new pet home. It will take a few weeks to slowly acclimate him to his new environment. Start to socialize him gradually once he’s comfortable in his new surrounding and the bonding process will go much better.
The dewlap, or the massive wad of skin beneath the jowls of the iguana, is used to communicate.
An extended dewlap may also mean that it is trying to protect its territory from iguanas or from your owner. During mating season an protracted dewlap may mean”I need to partner”. This applies should there be female iguanas in the same enclosure, and it is mating season.
If your iguana is used to your presence, and has been tamed, an protracted dewlap may signify it is a little drafty and it is making an attempt.
Iguana Mannerisms
Head Bobbing: I’m the man of the house?
Head Bobbing: (to owner) “Howdy Mate!”
Head Bobbing: (fast, laterally then up and down) I’m threatened do not go near me! Eating something.
Tongue Flicking: I am about to take a bite out of something.
Sneezing: I’m purging my system of something.
Tail Whipping: I am planning to attack. ?
Squirming Around: I don’t like being held.
Iguana Anatomy
Like other reptiles, your iguana has a set of eyes that have evolved to scan the surroundings for potential and food predators. It’s a pair of ears that are protected by a element of skin called the shield that is subtympanic.
The iguana forms spines along its back; those spines are called the spines and, these grow in length and become harder as time passes. Iguanas have a flap of skin under their lower jaw called the dewlap.
Be careful when bringing your hands near the iguana’s mouth, since those teeth can result in serious tears. You may observe a prominent patch of scale, if you look at the top of the iguana’s head.
This is known as the eye, or eye. The iguana uses its third eye to detect changes in light in a given area. It’s believed that this burrowing eye is also utilised to detect predators that are flying , hence the iguana may make a run for cover.
It’s essential to learn about mannerisms and iguana behavior. The fundamental facts discussed in the guide should help to decipher your iguana’s moods. Don’t forget that no two iguanas are exactly alike so you must learn the personality of your new pet. Ask questions and gather as much information as possible to ensure that your iguana is lived well cared for.