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Posted by Iguana Joe on August 17, 2002 at 22:26:55:
In Reply to: Desert Iguana Care... posted by danman on August 17, 2002 at 16:03:22:
I dont want to contradict creaturemd's reply, but a 4'x2' enclosure seems small to me for a pair of deserts and chucks.
U see, we humans have to do the best we can to simulate (and stimulate) natural habitats and behavior whenever keeping an exotic animal. If we cannot meet these requirements, it is best to look at another specie.
A desert iguana lives in open desert areas, with shrubs and seldom encounter trees. Therefore the captive enclosure should resemble what these creatures were designed for. Since they do run, and do move a lot (ie: high activity) they have to be provided with a VERY LARGE enclosure; which is rather big for such a small animal. Honestly, in my most humble opinion, 4x2 won't cut it. Either 4x4, with 3 feet of height, or other measures. 4x2 may be the extreme MINIMUN for ONE ADULT. If housing 2 or more, it has to be larger.
Do not forget that height is important for proper placement of bulbs and lamps for safety distance and proper heating, as well as small climbing areas. The more "excercise" and exploring they're offered, the better. Remember these are WILD animals.
Another reason for the large size of the enclosure is temperature. These igs love high temps, and can tolerate up to 110F. However, that is tolerating, not relish. 90-100F should be the hottest, with +/-80F coolest. To make the temps difference functional, a cage has to be large enough.
Due to their high activity, diet does consist of some animal protein, about 20%, though u better double check on that.
They are not the easiest to tame, and though not aggressive, they are rather wary lizards.
Check the Chuckwalla forum for more help. often these people have desert igs as well.
Care is similar to cycluras if u will; with differences in size (animal n enclosure) and slight diff's in diet.
If u need more help, just ask.
Regards,
IJ
