Facts about Iguanas
- 09
Iguanas possess a specialized tympanum or eardrum located behind their eyes that allows them to detect low-frequency vibrations through the ground from up to 150 feet away.
- 08
Coloration in iguanas shifts from bright green in juveniles to duller olive or gray tones by adulthood, with males displaying more vivid hues during breeding season to attract females.
- 07
Femoral pores along an iguana's thighs secrete waxy pheromones that males use to mark territory and communicate dominance to other iguanas within their range.
- 06
During their first year of life, baby iguanas grow approximately 10 inches per month until reaching their adult size around 3 to 4 years of age.
- 05
Reaching lengths of up to 6.5 feet from head to tail, green iguanas are among the largest lizards native to Central and South America.
- 04
Iguanas possess a specialized salt gland in their nasal passages that allows them to excrete excess sodium chloride, enabling survival in saltwater environments for extended periods.
- 03
An adult male iguana's dewlap, a large flap of skin beneath its chin, can extend up to 6 inches long during territorial or courtship displays.
- 02
Green iguanas can hold their breath underwater for up to 30 minutes while diving to escape predators or search for food.
- 01
The third eye atop an iguana's head, called a parietal eye, can detect light and shadow changes up to 30 feet away.