Iguana Heat, UVB Light, & Humidity

Lighting

Iguanas need UVB light 8 - 12 inches from their basking spot for 12-14 hours per day. Make sure your iguana can't access the light. A chicken wire screen around the light will prevent this, without filtering the uv rays. Replace the bulb once every 6 months - a year even if it still works. The uv after this time has degraded.

Natural sunlite is best, and taking your iguana out to the yard on sunny days is recommended. Be careful it doesn't escape. Iguanas run and climb extremely fast, a portable cage for outdoor use is recommended.

Heating

Iguanas need high temperatures in order to digest food. The basking area of the cage should be 95 degrees. You must also provide a cooler area, and the lower range should be 75 degrees.

There are several ways to heat the cage. The best way to provide heat is by using an ordinary household light bulb and lamp . Use a digital thermometer to get an accurate temperature reading (place the probe where your iguana usually tends to bask), and adjust the wattage and placement of the bulb until you get the correct temperature. The heat source should preferably be overhead.

Ceramic heat emitters can be used, but a strong wire casing must be used to prevent the iguana from burning itself.

A (human) heating pad can be used. If it has 3 heat settings, use the lowest setting.

Don't use heat rocks. They have a bad reputation for over heating and burning iguanas. There are heating pads sold in pet stores which stick to the bottom of aquariums. I wouldn't recommend this either. I bought one when I first brought home 'Dude' (my iguana). First of all, it doesn't produce much heat. If water spills in the aquarium, and it will, the glass cracks. Also, they cannot be removed from original tank, and are expensive. Since they must be attached to the floor, this also means iggy is probably lying in his poop!

Humidity

Iguanas are comfortable at a relative humidity of 85-95%. Not only is this difficult to maintain, but bacteria thrives at this level. A slightly** lower humidity level will not harm the iguana and is easier to maintain. To raise the humidity, use a humidifier, or place a tub of water under the heat lamp. Mist your iguana several times a day if needed.

**Humidity should be as close to optimal level as is possible to maintain. Although your iguana may seem fine without it, lack of humidity will eventually lead to illness.