Any Ctenosaura owners over here? I have a few questions...

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Posted by Annaka on October 12, 2002 at 21:28:12:

I have read that C. similis are more wild than green igs, and that they do not tame well. The two keepers I've spoken with at herp shows have told me the same thing, these are not lap pets. That is fine by me, since I am mainly in love with their look - I plan to provide a large showy enclosure, and let them act as they wish. I already have green igs, so I am fairly experienced with the whole healthy diet and UV lighting issue... My questions stem from the lack of consistent information on these guys.

First, what is the average adult size? I was told everything from 2.5' - 4', but what is normal? Can anyone point me to an age/growth chart, if such a thing exists? I assume females would be smaller than males, right?

Everyone mentions that their diet should contain some amounts of animal protein, unlike the current dietary recommendation for green igs. How much protein? Any rules as to proportion of bugs vs. greens? Do they have problems from too much protein? How about not enough protein??

Can C. similis communicate with green igs, to the point of territorial aggression? For example, if one of my male green igs gets into the room with the other male ig's enclosure, he will posture and display in front of the cage untill I forcibly remove him. I cannot house them in the same room during breeding season(in separate cages, of course), because both will display and refuse to eat. Would I have this problem with a C. similis and a green ig? Or is this pretty much an individual thing?

And finaly, can anyone recommend a good place to buy or to adopt my future ctenosaura? I think I want a male, so I'd have to get a sexable subadult and not a baby. I don't know if anyone breeds them (are they even worth the effort for breeders?), but I can work with an imported animal, I have a good reptile vet. I'm open to suggestions... And if anyone is looking to sell/adopt out their male similis, I'd be happy to provide a good home.

Follow Ups:

Here's$.02 from my expeience and reading... Phnoxx 10/13/02 (0)
I've had my similis for over 4 years now.... pic jiffypop 10/13/02 (2)
- Good to know...(more) Annaka 10/13/02 (0)
- Good to know... Annaka 10/13/02 (0)
Re: Any Ctenosaura owners over here? I have a few questions... IGUANA JOE 10/12/02 (2)
- Thanks! One more question? Annaka 10/12/02 (1)
  - Re: Thanks! One more question? Phnoxx 10/13/02 (0)
These are good questions for jiffypop! n/m xta 10/12/02 (0)