So im getting an iguana

[Marijuanasaurus]

since dinosaurs are extinct, and DNA engineering has a long way to go, im getting an iguana as a pet. Actually my sister is buying it for me for my birthday(late). I mean how cool would it be to have a 6 foot lizard sitting on your shoulder. Only problem is i dont know shit about reptilians. Any advice on how to take care of this beast?

[Chris "fuck pedos" Hansen]

since dinosaurs are extinct, and DNA engineering has a long way to go, im getting an iguana as a pet. Actually my sister is buying it for me for my birthday(late). I mean how cool would it be to have a 6 foot lizard sitting on your shoulder. Only problem is i dont know shit about reptilians. Any advice on how to take care of this beast?

http://www.stgfc.com/F1/ot/iguanaonastick.JPG

[5024L]

I want to know about iguanas too. What do you need to get started?

[Chris "fuck pedos" Hansen]

Don't let him on chat boards

[Vizier]

You live in California, so weather shouldn't be much of an issue. I had an iguana once, but it died because I used to live in a very cold city. Anyway, most importantly:

1) Sunlight. Yep, you need a source of UV light; reptiles need to sun in order to survive and regulate their body temperature. In doors you'll need a blacklight or a UV lightbulb in order to deal with this issue.

2)Food and water. Self explanatory; although you do need to get suplements on food (especially calcium) and make it's diet vary. They are mostly vegeterian and learn to recognize their owner during feeding times. Those reptiles tend to feed during the afternoon, when they are most active.

3) Enclosure. Be sure to have a large, well sealed enclosure; they tend to be avid climbers and will escape when they get a chance. Be sure to set a basking spot and plent of branches or stuff for them to climb and excersize properly. It needs a clean, natural substrate, too, as well as a shallow pan or something for water. While they can swim; you don't want your iguana to end up floating upside down some random morning.

Remember, they are more complicated than taking care of a dog, cat or other mammal; but nevertheless, they make quite interesting pets. As adults, they tend to be territorial, so watch out.

Hope I helped.
RIP Godzilla

[ShutMeUp]

One thing first - iguanas rarely make good pets, and usually end up being rehomed within 2 years. Some of them are nice, but for the most part it's like keeping kids. You'll have to have a lot of patience because they take ages to tame.

Ask questions and we'll try to answer, I don't fancy typing out a caresheet right now :p