Green Iguana - Malon

Green Iguanas are large arboreal lizards that live high in the tree canopies of Mexico and South America.

Juveniles (youngsters) establish areas lower in the canopies while older mature iguanas reside higher up!

This tree dwelling habitat allows them to bask in the sun, rarely coming down except when females dig burrows in which to lay their eggs.

No matter where they inhabit, they prefer to be around water as they are excellent swimmers and will dive beneath the water to avoid predators!!

Iguanas are placid vegetarians eating leaves and fruit. Sometimes they may have a little carrion or insects but mainly they are herbivoures!

Male Green Iguanas can grow to lengths of 2 meters and weight 8 kgs!

In captivity thety can live for 20 years but most only make 8 years in the wild.

Malon arrived here on 21st March 2007 from the RSPCA Putney who found her in someone’s shed! Because she is rescued we do not know her exact age but we guess she is about 8 years old!

She spends her days with her friend Charlie, sunbathing In their enclosure and coming out to meet people.

Fortunately Green iguana are not endangered but like many species the illegal pet trade threatens their future as does the loss of their natural habitat. With support like yours we can continue to give refuge to animals like Malon and ensure their success in the future. Thank you.