HELMETED IGUANA

Description

The Helmeted Iguana ranges from Southern Mexico through Central America to Northeastern Columbia in the tropical rainforests. They are also known as Forest Chameleon.

Captive Care
The care of the helmeted iguana is similar to the care requirements of the Basiliscus, except that the iguana is not restricted to water. They require a spacious enclosure furnished with strong plants and branches.

hysical Characteristics
Grows to 14″ (34 cm) [Wynne: 12-16″], it has a slender, laterally compressed body with long limbs, and the typical iguanid toes. The tail is up to twice the snout-vent length (svl). A bilateral occipital crest, culminating in a tall helmet (casque) on the nape of the neck, is followed by a short dorsal crest running the length of the body. . Scalation is a mixture of granular and roughened; ventral and lower caudal scales strongly keeled. Coloration ranges from rich browns to olive and gray, with lighter and darker markings.

Males are differentiated from females by their larger helmets.

Habitat
This arboreal iguanid ranges from southern Mexico through Central America to northeastern Columbia in the tropical rainforests. Generally found in the lower branches of trees or in bushes. When excited, the occipital crest and a small, serrated gular pouch are extended

Diet
Feeds on arthropods, spiders, pinks and fuzzies, lizards, earthworms. Supplement with vitamins and calcium.

Reproduction
Breeding and egg production apparently occur throughout the year. Females lay 6-11 eggs per clutch in moist earth or humus. Hatchlings are 3-4″.

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