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Feeding Green Iguanas (Iguana iguana) The feeding plan below is intended for the use of pet stores as a guideline for properly feeding their iguanas. This is a plan we devised using several different sources, and is successful with the many iguanas we keep in captivity. For young iguanas, a mix of 1 part animal protein to 2 parts vegetable material is good. Adult iguanas need only 5-15% of animal protein. 1.) Mix as a basic feed ration, good calcium source
2.) Use sparingly for variety, marginal calcium source
3.) Use rarely, poor calcium sources, (these we like to add in for color which we find attracts the iguanas)
4.) Animal Protein
Remember a variety is important. The food should be finely chopped for small iguanas and coarsely chopped for medium to large iguanas. Juvenile iguanas need to be fed daily. Adult iguanas, 3 years old, need only to be fed 2-3 times a week. With a proper diet of good calcium source foods, minimal vitamin/mineral supplementation will be required. For juveniles, the food should be sprinkled 2-3 times a week with powdered multivitamin/mineral supplement. Once a week add an equal portion of Calcium Carbonate or Gluconate, or better yet Ostioform R, a calcium/vitamin D3 supplement. Note, the smaller or less dominant iguanas may not be able to compete for food. They will starve to death in this case. To avoid this problem use two dishes placed at opposite ends of their enclosure. Some experts feel a full-spectrum light, is necessary for the iguanas to be able to produce Vitamin D3, needed to digest calcium. (If a Vitamin D3 supplement is not provided.) We use both.
References: "Care of Green Iguanas", Woerpel, MS, DVM, Richard, Rosskopf, Jr., DVM, Walter. The Complete Guide to Reptile Nutrition, Reptile News Press, 1991, PP 23-32. The General Care and Maintenance of the Green Iguana, De Vosjoli, Philippe, Advanced Vivarium Systems, 1990, PP 13-16. Reptile & Amphibian Magazine, "Green Iguanas their Care and Captive Husbandry, Frank, DVM, Norman, Jan./Feb. 1992, PP 30-37.
This information sheet has been written and provided as a courtesy by Silver City Serpentarium, Inc. 1993.
Silver City Serpentarium, Inc. Postal Office Box 313 Myakka City, Florida 34251-0313 U.S.A. |