Interesting Facts about Iguanas
Interesting Facts about Iguanas
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There are two iguana species, i.e. Green Iguana and Lesser Antillean Iguana. The green iguana, which is widespread throughout its range and a popular pet, is also known as the common iguana. Common iguanas are one of the largest lizards in the world, averaging about 6.5 feet long and weighing 11 pounds. They use signals to communicate with other members of the species. Iguanas have a third eye. The eye doesn't function the same way as the normal eye because it has only a rudimentary retina and lens and cannot form images. It is, however, sensitive to changes in light and dark and can also detect movement. Males have two hemipenes. |
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They are also called "bamboo chicken" or "chicken of the trees" in Central America, where their meat is frequently consumed.
They can jump down from great heights, if threatened. They are known to land on solid ground from as high as 40 feet.
This lizard is native to tropical areas of Central America, China and the Caribbean.
Did you know that iguana is a herbivore lizard?
A row of spines run down their back, all the way to the tail.
They have strong jaws, with razor sharp teeth.
Male Green iguanas use their bodies as shield to protect females in familial groups. It appears that they are the only species of reptiles displaying this behavior.
The word iguana is derived is derived from Spanish.
Male iguanas are sometimes referred to as gorrobo or ministro in Spanish speaking countries.
The Moche people of ancient Peru often depicted Green iguanas in their art.
They have well developed dewlaps which helps regulate their body temperature.
Female Green iguanas lay a clutch of 20 to 71 eggs per year. The eggs hatch after an incubation of 10 to 15 weeks.
They have excellent vision. Iguanas are able to see colors, shapes, shadows and movement at long distances. They use their eyes to find food and navigate through thick forests.
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