How to Set Up a Terrarium for an Iguana

Iguanas are interesting pets that live in a terrarium. The key elements to set up a terrarium for an iguana include housing, space, light, heat and security. As long as you take the key elements into account, the iguana's terrarium can be your own unique creativity. Here are some steps on how to set up a terrarium for your pet iguana.

Instructions

1. Get a terrarium such as a rabbit hutch or a 40 to 50 gallon tank for your iguana. Most iguanas prefer an open-air home that provides enough space for supplies, yet still allowing space for the iguana to remain comfortable.

2. Light the terrarium using a UVB light. The lighting needs to consist of two lights, a day light (UVB) and an inferred red light used during the night. It is important that the lights be positioned 12 to 18 inches away from an area of the terrarium that is covered with wire mesh (such as the top). Use of a UVB light will properly metabolize the calcium in the terrarium. Without the calcium, the Iguana's bones develop a disease and the Iguana will eventually die.

3. Heat up the terrarium. Iguanas like it warm, but have no way of controlling their body temperature. Use of under the cage heating pads, ceramic heaters or incandescent lamps are a couple of ways to heat the terrarium. Place a thermometer inside the terrarium so you will know for sure what the temperature is. The temperature should be 85º in the hot area during the day and a minimum of 75 degrees at night.

4. Provide your iguana with a variety of food in their diet. Iguana's main meal should consist of different greens that they love such as mustard greens, dandelion greens, kale, turnips, cilantro and bok choy. Fruits and vegetables can be added to their diet such as carrots, apples and sweet peppers. Iguanas must have a fresh supply of water daily.

5. Place a log or piece of driftwood and foliage inside the terrarium. Iguanas love to climb and lay on the logs or driftwood to bask under the lights. Adding foliage inside the terrarium gives the iguana the feeling that he is outdoors.

Tips & Warnings

• Iguanas will double their size in one year. You are better off starting with an overly large terrarium than to have to purchase another terrarium within a year.

• Make sure your terrarium is escape proof. Iguanas like to climb and could escape if the lid is not properly fitted on the terrarium.

• Check any mesh wire used for sharp edges.

• Do not use "heat rocks" or similar heating devices. These devices provide too much eat and the heat is too localized to help the Iguana.