Types Of Iguanas (Most Common Iguana Species)

Iguanas are a group of lizard species famous for their vibrant colors, spiky back crests, and the long tails they use to whip away any threats. These beauties generally have a life span of around 15 to 20 years, but with excellent care, some iguanas have been known to live well into their 30s – pretty amazing, huh?

They are originally from the warm climates of Central and South America, the Caribbean, and other parts of the world where they live in various environments from rainforests to deserts.

Understanding the different species of iguanas is crucial for potential pet owners, conservationists, and iguana enthusiasts. Each species has its own set of requirements for care, diet, habitat, and medical needs.

Learning about them is not just important, it’s a responsibility we must undertake to provide them a life they deserve. It also helps conservation efforts as we understand more about their needs and behaviors, especially for those species that are endangered.

Types of Iguanas

There are dozens of different species of iguanas. Here are the most common types of iguanas including a few that are endangered.

1. The Green Iguana

Also known as the American Iguana, these are some of the most popular pet iguanas out there. They are known for their vibrant green color, although they can sometimes display different shades depending on mood or temperature.

The natural habitat of the Green Iguana stretches from Mexico to Brazil and includes the Caribbean islands. They usually reside in tropical rainforests near bodies of water.

As herbivores, their diet mainly consists of leaves, flowers, and fruits. From a pet owner’s perspective, a high-quality diet for a Green Iguana would consist mostly of dark, leafy greens with occasional servings of fruits.

2. The Blue Iguana