Green Iguanas are among the largest lizard in South and Central America. Adults average around 2m in length and can weigh as much as 7kg. Their range extends from the rainforests of northern Mexico to southern Brazil.

Green Iguanas spend most of their time in the canopy of rainforests, only infrequently descending to mate, lay eggs or change trees. They are primarily herbivorous, feeding on flowers, leaves and fruit. They are often seen near water and are excellent swimmers. If they feel threatened, they will often leap from their branch into water below and have been known to jump from as high as 40ft onto solid ground and survive.

In Central America, where iguana meat is frequently consumed, iguanas are referred to as bamboo chicken, or chicken of the trees.

They are a challenging animal to look after. As juveniles they are defensive and will whip their tails if they feel threatened. As adults, they are typically more calm, but require a large enclosure with plenty of branches for climbing.