Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hi, I 'adopted' an ig on saturday and I need some advice. When I got him he was in an 'enclosure' approx. 3.5'x3'x3'. The ig at this point is about 2' nose to bum. He was only being fed broccoli, strawberries, and grapes. Now he has an entire bedroom for himself and is being fed properly. My one big concern is that he won't go near the UV light. He spends a large amount of time laying on the window sill. Is there enough UVB coming in through the window to keep him healthy? There probably isn't so the next question is how do I make sure he is getting enough light? He has no parasites or diseases (which is surprising considering the conditions he was living in) he is being fed properly, so lighting is my only big concern.

I suspect the only light the lizard had available previously was from the window. Since he likes to bask there, just move a uvb bulb over the windowsill. Window glass filters out about 99% of uvb rays,so he won't be gettting enough. IF the window was open and only the screen between him and sunlight, it wouldn't be too bad. It would be a good ideal to just take him outside for an hour a day, either in a screen (hardware cloth or 1/4 inch wire mesh) cage or on a lizard leash (just be careful of his spines, as they can be damaged by a leash if it doesn't fit properly).

Thanks! I would like to leave the window open but I am afraid he will rip through the screen, not a good idea on the third floor. Also, is fresh alfalfa sprouts ok for him or should I be using pellets or powder?

Go to the Green Iguana Society on line. They have some experts that are very helpful in lighting and heating. They also have some links that will help you. Good luck.

Thanks folks. He is doing much better. I attached the UV to the top of the window where he lounges.

You need to feed him some collard, mustard, turnip greens. He is probly starving for some good healthy food. If you go to the Green Iguana Society they have care sheets diet sheets and a hoard of experts that answer you questions. You can learn a lot from previous questions asked. It is free and the people are helpful. They even have an adoption board. Just do a Google search for Green Iguana Society. Lots of good free information.