The Green Iguana is one of the most time consuming reptiles that you can own.  They will require a large enclosure once they reach 1 foot in length.  The suggestions and recommendations below should help you make and informed decision should you choose to any iguana to your family.

1.  The enclosure:  These can be quite costly, reaching $3000 is not uncommon.  I build the enclosures for our residents and it is considerably less expensive.  Plus, building your own enclosures will allow you to add some unique and cool features that your iguana can enjoy.  You will want to build the enclosure large enough to last the remainder of your iguana's life so we recommend a minimum of 6 feet high, 4 feet wide, and 3 feet deep.  Remember the taller the better.  Some people use a spare room and set it up solely for the iguana, if you have the extra space, and no other animal (including humans) are going to live in this room then go for it.  However, we STRONGLY disapprove on any reptile 'free roaming' a house or yard without constant supervision.

2.  Lighting and heat:  Iguana's require as much direct, unfiltered natural sunlight as possible.  If this is not readily available than you will need to purchase a UVB light source.  We recommend using T-Rex Products Active UVHeat Spot or Active UVHeat Flood.  Both of these lamps are excellent in providing the necessary UVA, UVB, and heat necessary to keep your iguana healthy.  NEVER USE HEAT ROCKS!  Cobra mats, pig blankets, red heat lamps for night time are highly recommended.

3.  Substrate:  This is a difficult subject as many different keepers have different preferences.  We prefer to use Bed-a-Beast or large blankets, as this tends to prevent any substrate from being swallowed.  Ensure that the substrate you choose is not going be swallowed and either choke or cause intestinal impaction in your iguana.  Always feed your iguana in a large bowl that will not tip over and you will greatly decrease the chance of foreign objects from entering the body.

The initial cost to set up your new iguana can be anywhere from $500 to well above $3000 depending on your choices in caging and accessories.  The average, if you build your own enclosure and search the internet for accessory bargains, ranges between $300 and $500.  Now add on the increase in your electric bill and the cost of feeding fresh greens and veggies daily.

Now you know, iguanas can make great additions to your family, if you are willing to spend money and ALOT of time with them.  They are not the cheap, small sized lizards that the pet industry and people at the swap meets are so eager to tell and sell you.