Green iguanas are the largest type of lizards to inhabit the United States and they are found mainly in South and Central America. They are also found living in Mexico, the Caribbean, the Eastern Pacific and the South Eastern parts of Brazil. These iguanas are also the most popular pet iguanas in the U.S.

When green iguanas are hatched, they vary in length from 17 to 25 centimeters. In the three years that follow they will increase their weight from 12 grams to 1 kilogram. Most iguanas that are well taken care of will reach between 4 to 6 kilograms in their lifetime but some can actually reach a huge 8 kilos.

Even though these iguanas are termed green, they do not necessarily possess this color. Young iguanas will vary in color between green and brown, and adult iguanas become uniform in color. Colors are often affected by moods, temperature, health and social stature.

Green iguanas possess a distinct dewlap or large flap of skin under their throats which tends to be more dominant in males than in females because it serves as both an intimidation mechanism and as a way to impress females. It also assists in regulating the body temperature. The eyes are positioned laterally and are protected by both mobile and immobile eye lids. The thyroid glands and endocrine are controlled by the parietal eye which also acts as a meter for solar energy. The scales and plates situated on the head are more irregular and much larger than those situated on the rest of the body.

Green iguanas are arboreal lizards which means that they enjoy spending time on the trees and in open spaces. When they are young, iguanas prefer to remain in the lower parts of trees, but as they mature they move further up. By lying and basking in the trees, they fulfill their need to absorb sunlight. They will only go down if there is danger or if the female needs to dig burrows for laying her eggs. Iguanas prefer to make their habitats and lazing areas around water so that they can easily jump down from trees to escape predators and also cool off. They are lucky enough to possess good swimming abilities and it assists them greatly to avoid being caught by enemies.

Green iguanas make for wonderful pets. Anyone interested in owning an iguana should read up and get all the information they can get before deciding to take care of an iguana of their own. This will ensure a healthy bond between an iguana and its owner.