Green iguanas are large lizards. They can grow up to 6 feet long and weigh up to 17 pounds. While typically green, their color can vary from brown, gray, black or dark green. However, the males turn bright orange during mating season.These cold blooded reptiles rely on external heat sources to regulate body temperature. They have strong jaws containing sharp teeth. Iguanas have a prominent flap of skin under the throat, in larger males, which is used for display and temperature regulation, called the dewlap. They have a row of spines running along the neck, back and tail called the dorsal crest. Green Iguanas also have long tails and short powerful limbs ,which are covered in small leathery green scales , and sharp claws for climbing.

Green iguanas are native to Central and South America and the Caribbean Islands as well as Florida and Hawaii. They thrive in hot, humid tropical environments and  are highly skilled and proficient climbers.They spend most of their days in the high tree canopy basking in the sun. Green iguanas inhabit tropical rainforests, dry forests and savanna habitats, often near a water source. However, the green iguana are considered to be invasive animals in southern Florida and Hawaii after being introduced both intentionally and unintentionally through pet trade.  

Soaking in every bit of sun they can get, a typical morning for the  green iguana starts by emerging from their roosts, often in high trees, and moving to basking spots. They bask in the sun to raise their body temperature and synthesize vitamin D3, It is crucial to their health. Green iguanas are ectothermic reptiles, meaning they rely on external sources of heat to regulate their body temperature. Green iguanas in South Florida may drop from trees when the temperature drops below the mid-40s Fahrenheit . By basking, they absorb solar radiation, including UV light. UV light is vital for producing vitamin D3, which helps the iguana to absorb calcium from their food, preventing g metabolic bone disease.

In the Daytime Iguanas forage for food, they are herbivores, primarily consuming plant matter. They climb through the trees seeking out leaves , flowers and fruit. While adults primarily eat plants , juvenile iguanas may also consume insects and eggs. They use their tails for balance and movement as they navigate through the canopy. As the sun sets , Green iguanas usually seek out a suitable roosting location, often high in a tree near a water source and are generally inactive at night. 

Green iguanas can live up to 20 years in the wild. If threatened they may dart into trees, splash into water or use their tails as a distraction. Predators include haws , eagles, snakes, crocodilians and large mammals like jaguars and ocelots. Humans also hunt and poach them for pet trade and as bait for crocodiles.