One of the popular red iguanas is the Red-sided Skink. These are multicolored terrestrial and semi-aquatic lizards that are native to the rocky steppes and open forest habitat of Southern and Eastern Africa.

Today, these red iguanas are the most popular pet reptiles. They are also one of the most purchased. Thus, these red iguanas are now found in the garden and even inside the house.

Care Of and Feeding Your Red Iguana

Like any other pet, there are some requirements needed in order for the red iguana to grow in its new environment.

1. Proper Housing

A red iguana can live in a 30 gallon aquarium. Enclosures can vary in shape, size and styles, and are made out of glass or wood. The base should be easy to clean. The most efficient material to use is newspaper, but linoleum and artificial grass are also excellent options as well. Keep enclosures free from soil, sand and bark, as these can lead to obstruction if your iguana ingests them. It is also important to provide them with a shallow container for food and water. These food and water dishes must be thoroughly disinfected and cleaned regularly. It is also necessary to add climbing materials such as twigs, some barks, broad limbs and rocks.

2. Right Feeding

Iguanas in general are herbivores and should be given a variety of vegetable and fruits. The bulk of the diet must contain green leafy vegetables such as mustard greens, escarole, kale and spinach. But it is also important to feed them with a limited amount of protein-rich foods. You can also offer mixed vegetable like green peppers, squash, frozen mixed vegetables and green beans, and fruits like bananas, mangoes and apples. Like other pets, iguanas should be fed every day.

3. Appropriate Amount of Water

Water is the most essential need of iguanas, thus it should be readily available. Normally, iguanas get water through the plants they consume, or by lapping water off wood or on leaves. Exposing your iguana to water in their environment early in the morning will avoid their being dehydrated. Iguanas should be provided with water dishes and it is important that these dishes are regularly cleaned to prevent bacterial infections.

4. Grooming Your Iguana

Like all pets, your iguana must also be properly groomed. Bathing is a good routine to get your iguana used to. It is one way for your pet to obtain water and cleanse themselves. Bathing should be done using lukewarm water in a shallow container, at least 3 times a week. Always aid your pet to avoid accidents. Keep in mind that not all iguanas have fun during bath time, some might panic.

5. Handling Your Iguana

Iguanas should be handled frequently to discipline or tame them. Your pet iguana can be trained to show fondness for those who handle them regularly. They should be held 2-3 times every day for at least fifteen minutes. Gently stroke their back and neck and get your pet reptile used to handling and picking them up. Just keep in mind that iguanas can be aggressive by nature so extreme caution is needed in handling your pet reptile.

The information above is some facts about red iguanas that you must keep in mind. Remember that pet iguanas should be treated with proper care.