Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hi there. I've had my iguana, Simba, since about christmas and I've got some questions.

I've noticed that he likes to sleep in his food bowl, is this anything particular?

Also, when i go to hold him, he gets really rammy and eventually he'll end up in my hands. Then, he'll start ficking his tail, but not trying to hit me, kinda like a cat does when it's pissed. Is this the same thing..or is he trying to hit me, but missing? Also,he'll open his mouth and try to bite me. When he does this, I tap him on the nose and tell him "No" firmly. Eventually,after about 25 mins and once he's calm, I put him away to hopefully get him to learn being good = put back, and being bad = nose tap.

So my main concern, am I doing anything right or wrong? Appreciate it.

Only thing I would fix is the food-bowl sleeping.
It is not sanitary to allow an animal that may come in direct contact with its feces to sleep where it eats. If the food's gone, remove the bowl. If there is still food, but has been there for quite some time, therefore no longer "fresh", remove the bowl. Does it have a hiding spot? Perhaps the bowl gives it a feeling of security. See if you can purchase some enclosure accessory (cave, log, etc) that may become a much more suitable sleeping arrangement. Also, if the enclosure is not tall enough, the iguana will spend more time down at the bottom.

The nose tapping is ok.
Other than that, don't stress it too much and don't over-do it with the handling.
Any more Q's, feel free to post!

-IJ